Washington Passes Strippers' Bill of Rights

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The Proposal Effectively Allows Alcohol in Strip Clubs and Repeals Lewd Conduct Codes Used to Raid Gay Bars

After years of advocacy from strippers, a surge in support from the LGBTQ+ community, and a rally on the Capitol steps that featured pole dancing, on Tuesday night the Washington State House passed a Strippers’ Bill of Rights, 58-36. The bill adds labor protections for strippers, effectively allows strip clubs to sell alcohol, and repeals an antiquated lewd conduct code the cops recently used to raid queer clubs in Seattle.

Somewhat auspiciously, the bill passed shortly after 10 pm, when the House Speaker relaxed the chamber’s own lewd conduct rules by announcing that members could remove their jackets as they continued working into the night. In passing the State House, advocates overcame their largest political hurdle and brought Washington one step closer to joining the civilized world.

If the Governor signs the legislation, the repeal of the state’s lewd conduct rules would free the nipple and the jockstrap at gay bars, allowing the LGBTQ+ community to go-go dance without fear of the goon squad busting in with flashlights and cameras.

The lewd conduct code repeal also allows strips clubs to apply for liquor licenses, such as a tavern license that permits wine and beer sales or a night club license that allows liquor sales after a certain hour. A provision directing the Department of Labor & Industries to work with clubs that apply for liquor licenses appears to add some ballast to that allowance.

https://www.thestranger.com/olympia/2024/02/28/79406267/washington-passes-strippers-bill-of-rights