HCS SB 870 -- BILLBOARDS

SPONSOR:  Bartle (Pearce)

COMMITTEE ACTION:  Voted "do pass" by the Committee on
Transportation and Motor Vehicles by a vote of 19 to 1.

This substitute prohibits billboards or other advertising signs
for an adult cabaret or sexually oriented business within one
mile of any state highway.  Businesses located within one mile of
a state highway may display a minimum of two exterior signs on
the premises.  The substitute specifies the size and information
allowed on the sign.

Existing signs which do not meet this requirement may be allowed
to continue in a nonconforming status but must be made to conform
within three years.

The Attorney General will represent the state in all actions and
proceedings arising from the substitute.  All costs incurred by
the Attorney General to defend or prosecute this provision,
including payment of all court costs; civil judgments; and, if
necessary, any attorney fees, must be paid from the General
Revenue Fund.

FISCAL NOTE:  No impact on General Revenue Fund in FY 2005, FY
2006, and FY 2007.  Estimated Cost on Other State Funds of
Unknown in FY 2005, FY 2006, and FY 2007.  Expected to be less
than $100,000.

PROPONENTS:  Supporters say that various studies and court cases
of these businesses have been shown to have harmful effects in
the surrounding areas and to society.  The bill will help protect
minors from being exposed to lurid advertising, improve traffic
safety by removing unnecessary distractions, and help to minimize
negative effects on property values.

Testifying for the bill were Senator Bartle; Missouri Outdoor
Advertising Association; Missouri Family Network; Missouri Eagle
Forum; and Missouri Women for America.

OPPONENTS:  There was no opposition voiced to the committee.

Robert Triplett, Legislative Analyst

Missouri House of Representatives
92nd General Assembly, 2nd Regular Session
Last Updated September 23, 2004 at 11:16 am