LA SUCKS
(09-17) 04:29 PDT LOS ANGELES (AP) --
The City Council has voted to ban lap dances and all other physical contact between entertainers and customers at strip clubs, bikini bars and adult bookstores.
A "no-touch" rule would require dancers to remain at least six feet from customers -- even when dancers are tipped. The council also voted Tuesday to outlaw "VIP rooms," where nude dancers perform privately.
The ordinance now goes to Mayor James Hahn for his signature and could go into effect as early as next month. Hahn has said he will sign the bill.
Under the law, strip clubs must hire a state-licensed security guard and undergo an annual permit review. Violations would be punishable by up to six months in jail and up to $2,500 in fines.
Attorney Roger Jon Diamond said he planned to file a lawsuit challenging the ordinance's language and how it was adopted. Exotic dancers argued at previous hearings that the ordinance would destroy their livelihood.
Supporters of the law argued that strip clubs contribute to prostitution, drug use and violence.