Thursday, March 28, 2013

Orange Beach outlaws display of T-shirts it deems obscene

Here we go again with officials telling T-shirt vendors what they can and cannot sell to the general public, via a new ordinance, to control obscene slogans and images.

http://www.montgomeryadvertiser.com/article/20130328/NEWS02/303280023/Orange-Beach-outlaws-display-T-shirts-deems-obscene

This time its in Orange Beach, FL.  Officials are asking six stores (as of this article) to create an adult-only section, and put those obscene adult-themed T-shirts in that area.  The Miami-based company which owns 35 retail stores and employs 500 people is concerned by this action.  

“They come into your business and tell you what to do. I think there is a line crossed here. The last thing we want is this kind of ordinance.”

I understand about wanting to protect the innocence of children, or adults who do not wish to see these adult-themed shirts, I really do.  But I feel this is an abuse of power.  One or more people within the sphere of the officials can create an ordinance to advance their agenda.  

As noted by a city official, once the city officials, mayor and city attorney meet and determine what defines "obscene", they'll be able to control what T-shirts go into an adult-only section of the store.  But, once the "obscene" T-shirt is purchased, the purchaser can wear the T-shirt in public, with no censorship imposed upon them.

I feel its wrong to impose these conditions on the stores.  What are your thoughts?

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