Federal Judge Blocks State Law Requiring Exotic Dancers To Be 21 Or Older

The Louisiana Radio Network is reporting that federal judge Carl Barbier in New Orleans has again effectively blocked a new law that would require exotic dancers in Louisiana to 21 or older.  This all stems from a lawsuit alleging that 3 dancers (ages 18, 19, and 20 at the time the suit was filed) were being denied their ability to express their right to free speech through dance.

The law that contains the age requirement has been put on hold at least until the case goes goes to trial.  The law is aimed at keeping underage (under 21) workers out of establishments that serve alcohol.  According to the court, the law is too broad to be applied effectively.  The argument is, if theater groups with performers under 21 can act, sing, dance, etc. - with various amounts of clothing/costumes - this law must be applied there as well.  Because of that ambiguity, these plaintiffs, and effectively all exotic dancers, can ply their trade without fear of prosecution.