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Senate Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
Senate of Pennsylvania
Session of 2013 - 2014
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | September 11, 2014 11:19 AM |
|---|---|
| From: | Senator Lisa Baker and Sen. Charles T. McIlhinney, Jr. |
| To: | All Senate members |
| Subject: | Adult Entertainment Fee for Victims of Sexual Violence |
| Please join us in co-sponsoring legislation imposing a $5 fee on an adult-oriented business for each patron admitted to be allocated to support organizations that provide services to victims of sexual violence and child abuse. An adult-oriented business is defined as a nightclub, bar or restaurant that provides for a live nude performance and permits the on-premises consumption of alcohol, regardless whether licensed under the Liquor Code. In the aftermath of the Sandusky scandal and the need for specialized services for victims of sexual violence and child abuse, the need for forensic investigations, coordination between agencies and counseling is at a record high, while at the same time, shrinking resources and the erosion of funding have greatly impacted the programs available to assist victims. Agencies and non-profits are now struggling to provide emergency and support services. When a victim goes to a hospital, police station, advocacy center or calls a hotline, trained staff must be ready to respond. This funding will help ensure that more victims of sexual violence and child abuse have access to necessary services and that counties and law enforcement are able to identify predators and protect victims. The revenue derived is not intended to replace any federal or state funds currently available. Similar legislation has been enacted in Illinois and Texas, and several other states are considering proposals to supplement funding for these services. Thank you for your consideration. |
Introduced as SB1489