The Minneapolis City Council is set to vote next week on repealing a 1988 ordinance that bans adult bathhouses, following strong public support during a recent hearing. More than 30 residents spoke in favor of ending the ban, with several LGBTQ+ advocates arguing the law unfairly targeted same-sex relationships and people living with HIV and AIDS.
Researcher Jay Orne said, “Research has shown that pushing sexual activity into less visible spaces does not eliminate the risk. It makes outreach and education more difficult.” Supporters also cited tourism and safer-sex education as potential benefits. If approved, the repeal would begin a longer process before bathhouses could legally operate.
