House panel approves repeal of statute criminalizing commercial fortune‑telling after close votes and debate

The House Judiciary Committee voted 14–12 to report House Bill 15 62, which would repeal a statute that makes it a crime for business owners to provide fortune‑telling services for profit.

Representative Scott, sponsor of the bill, said constituents asked for the repeal because the law "unfairly targets fortune telling and other amusements," and called the statute "outdated." He said business owners should be able to offer services such as tarot‑card readings without fear of criminal charges and noted he had met fortune tellers from across the Commonwealth, identifying two who were present in the room and two watching online. Counsel confirmed the bill "takes effect in 60 days, and there are no amendments."

Representative Klunk moved to table the bill, arguing that an ongoing court case in the "Bridal District" raises questions the legislature should let the courts resolve first. Klunk listed legal questions in the lawsuit about whether the statute only prohibits fraud, whether it is rationally related to preventing fraud, and whether the statute is unconstitutionally vague. Representative Borowitz urged tabling, calling fortune‑telling "fraud and a lie." The motion to table failed on a roll call vote, and the committee then recorded passage of the bill 14–12.

The sponsor asked for an affirmative vote to remove "restrictions on free enterprise," and the committee reported House Bill 15 62 as committed.