With few exceptions, the 21-page proposed law assigns the adult tag to retail
outlets whose primary business model relies on the sale of sexually explicit
reading materials, movies or devices designed to stimulate sexual arousal.
The law also lays down formal rules for the operation of nude or semi-nude
performance clubs, escort services, nude modeling studios and what it calls
"massage establishments."
No laws in the township deal specifically with these types of businesses.
Township manager Elizabeth Heathcote said there are no businesses in the
township that would fall under the new law and that there are no applications
for any.
"We've been working with police for some time in an effort to write this
ordinance," she said.
If approved, potential adult-oriented business owners would have to go through
a rigorous application process that includes providing current color photos of
themselves and undergoing criminal background checks.
The main purpose of the check is to find those with sexually related
convictions and ties to organized crime.
"A lot of the women who were arrested for prostitution in York Township were
the victims of organized crime," said Tom Gross, chief of York Area Regional
Police. "Basically, many of them were put in the sex trade to pay off their
'immigration fees.'"
The proposed law defines a "massage establishment" as one that provides
services including "massage and body manipulation" and "all forms and methods
of physiotherapy," unless it's operated by a medical practitioner, chiropractor
or physical therapist licensed by the state.
Police have raided at least five massage businesses in York Township since June
2004, and those raids resulted in police filing charges of prostitution against
workers at the establishments.
Gross said one of the main things police did to help create the proposed law
was provide samples of laws that have been enacted in other places.
"We are very happy about these new rules and believe they will be good for the
people of York Township," Gross said.
Some highlights from the proposed law:
· A no-sexual-contact rule between employees and customers.
· A ban on enclosed private entertainment booths. All booths would have to have
an unobstructed view inside and be well-lit. Owners of adult businesses also
would have to have an "infectious control plan."
The proposed law cites "numerous studies and reports (which) have determined
that semen is found in the areas of adult-oriented businesses where persons
view adult oriented materials."
· Employees would also have to undergo a background check and receive proper
"infectious" training.
· No more than one nude or semi-nude model may be on display in a nude model
studio at a time. Certain accredited schools would be exempt.
· Adult business must be closed on Sundays and federal holidays and limit their
hours of operation to between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m.
Though the proposed law is written, the fees have yet to be determined for the
business application. Heathcote said that, too, should be determined at the
same time the proposal is voted on.
