SNOW HILL, Md. - Worcester County officials have approved an emergency bill imposing zoning restrictions on adult business, placing a moratorium on permits for such businesses until the end of the year.
The emergency bill would affect adult establishments where at least 20 percent of the materials are characterized as "mature," or adult live entertainment establishments where performers appear in a state of nudity.
The bill restricts adult businesses to industrial districts, requiring such establishments to maintain a 1,000 foot distance from similar businesses and a 2,000 foot distance from schools, churches or temples, public libraries, and public parks or recreation facilities.
According to the Delmarva Daily Times, no merchandise can be visible from the outside of the building. And the interiors have to be arranged so that employees can observe all areas open to customers.
While the bill is in effect, the county has reportedly contracted a law firm to work on a comprehensive plan to regulate sexually-oriented businesses.
Commissioner Virgil Shockley voted against passage of the bill because of what he saw as its slippery slope aspects, taking specific objection to a section that states movies theatres in restricted areas must not show "... material characterized by an emphasis on matters depicting, describing or relating to sexual activities."
Shockley said he was afraid that under the broad provision of the bill, any films with what can be considered mature material could eventually be banned.
According to the Delmarva Daily Times, Commissioner James Church said he would rather err on the side of being overly restrictive.
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