SPRINGFIELD, Ill., March 9 (UPI) -- Lawmakers in cash-strapped Illinois are backing legislation that would place a $5 admission tax on patrons of strip clubs, the sponsor says.
State Sen. Toi Hutchinson said the revenue from his legislation would be used to fund sexual violence prevention programs, the Law & Industry Journal reported.
The measure unanimously cleared the Senate's Public Health Committee this week and is awaiting action by the full chamber.
Hutchinson said the purpose of the admissions tax is to "ameliorate the negative secondary effects associated with the combination of sexually oriented businesses and alcohol."
The so-called "skin tax" would be placed in a fund that would provide grants to community assistance programs for victims of sexual assault.
Members of the Illinois Club Owners Association said the tax will put some clubs out of business.
