Picus Seeks to Shield Young From Sex Books
West San Fernando Valley City Councilwoman Joy Picus Wednesday proposed legislation requiring stores throughout Los Angeles to place sexually oriented publications out of the view and reach of children.
The city now has a law regulating the display of sexually oriented publications in adult bookstores and sex shops. But, Picus said, the law does not apply to establishments frequented by children.
“Parents have complained to me that their children stop off at a local convenience store and are exposed to sexually oriented magazines with graphic photographs,” she said. “The publications are openly displayed so that youngsters can examine not only the covers, but the contents as well.”
Picus’ proposal seeks to restrict the placement of sexually oriented publications to places on racks four feet from the floor, in a manner in which all but the magazine’s name is covered. As an alternative, the store would be allowed to display the magazines behind the sales counter, or in a separate adult section “partitioned in such a way as to prevent viewing by children.”
Her proposal was referred to the council’s Public Health, Human Resources and Senior Citizens Committee for a public hearing.
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