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Council refers ordinance changes on sex‑venue/bathhouse regulation to staff after contentious debate
Summary
After heated council debate over public‑health and community values, the Council voted to send a package of ordinance changes addressing bathhouses and sex‑venue regulation to staff for drafting and public‑health review; authors framed the move as anti‑stigma and harm‑reduction policy work.
Council members debated a package of proposed ordinance changes (items 24–27) that would modernize or remove stigmatizing language and consider a regulatory framework for sex‑venue activities historically banned or stigmatized in Minneapolis. Authors said the goal is to replace language rooted in 1980s moral panic with public‑health‑oriented regulations that can bring shadow activities into a safer, regulated environment for LGBTQ+ residents.
Speakers for the referral highlighted past public‑health benefits of regulated venues (e.g., supporting vaccine distribution during monkeypox outbreaks) and pointed to a two‑year prelegislative review and a 30‑page Policy & Research analysis. Opponents raised concerns about potential public‑health risks, community priorities and staff capacity; some members urged caution and more public engagement before spending staff time.
After extended remarks from authors and critics and appeals from multiple council members, the Council voted 12 ayes, zero nays and one abstention to refer the package to staff and the Public Health and Safety committee for drafting, review and public hearings. Authors and committee chairs said staff will work with public‑health experts and community organizations on draft language and outreach plans.
