Times Square Performers Say New License Law Would Violate Their Civil Liberties

[hrmjustin]

Anna Merlan

In the past few years, there have been several unfortunate, highly-publicized incidents in Times Square involving pervy, anti-Semitic Elmos and pugnacious, cop-punching Spidermen. But a new union representing Times Square costumed performers says a proposed law introduced by City Council Member Andy King yesterday -- which would require performers to be licensed and fingerprinted, and would create fines and jail time if they don't comply -- goes much too far.

King, who represents the Bronx's District 12, announced the proposed bill at a press conference in Times Square Monday, then introduced it Wednesday, September 10. That happened over the objections of New York Artists United for a Smile, the new costumed performers union, who say they weren't consulted about any aspect of the law

http://blogs.villagevoice.com/runninscared/2014/09/andy_l_king_new_york_artists_united_for_a_smile_lucia_gomez_bill_bratton_disney.php

[PoliticAverse]

1. Businesses can be licensed. n/t