Politics & Government

Extended Adult Entertainment Club Hours Proposed

Del. Shawn Z. Tarrant is sponsoring legislation that would allow four Baltimore strip clubs to serve food until 3 a.m.

You won't be able to get a lap dance but Del. Shawn Z. Tarrant wants to make sure you dont leave the club hungry.

Tarrant, who represents parts of Hampden, Roland Park and Charles Village, is sponsoring a bill that would allow four adult entertainment venues in Baltimore  to serve food until 3 a.m.

During a Baltimore City delegation hearing on the bill, Tarrant argued extending the hours for a “soft close” that would prevent large crowds from exiting clubs all at one time. 

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If the legislation is passed it would allow establishments with a liquor license, an adult entertainment license and “full kitchen facilities" to stay open an hour longer than the law currently allows. After 2 a.m. no alcohol or nudity would be permitted.

Tarrant said Baltimore’s current laws regarding when establishments must close puts the city at a disadvantage to other cities, such as New York and Philadelphia, in attracting tourists and conferences. 

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He also said the clubs provide for “fellowship” among men.

“It is time to bond with your boys,” Tarrant said. 

The legislation could also cause some logistical problems for Baltimore City police. Currently the overnight shift works from 7 p.m. to 3 a.m., which currently allows police to handle post bar crowds before a shift change.

Lobbyist Bruce Bereano, and the owners of the Baltimore Scores, spoke in favor of the bill. Frank Boston III, a lobbyist for the Baltimore Licensed Beverage Association, also spoke in favor of the legislation, and said his organization would eventually like to see “soft closes” extended to other establishments if it is successful in a test run at these adult entertainment venues.

The bill is scheduled for a hearing befre the Economic Matters Committee on Feb. 27.

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