April 5, 2007

Addison … Citing the need to protect young children from sexually explicit messages, State Representative Dennis Reboletti (R-Elmhurst) sponsored legislation that would restrict the use of billboards advertising adult entertainment stores.

“This issue was brought to my attention by local residents in my district,” Reboletti said. “The signage that is currently being used for adult entertainment stores sends the wrong message to our youth.”

On Lake Street in unincorporated Addison, there is a large billboard that reads “Adult Toy Store.” “The village has received numerous complaints from local residents and people driving by asking how the city could allow such a sign. Children see this sign and are asking their parents if they can go to the “toy store.” It’s completely misleading,” said Joseph Block, Village Manager of Addison. “We are behind Representative Reboletti’s legislation 100%.”

House Bill 3620 sponsored by Reboletti would make it a Class C misdemeanor to display billboards advertising an adult cabaret or sexually-oriented business unless that business displayed information stating that the place was off limits to minors or only advertised the store’s contact information. Current law allows for local municipalities to regulate placement of billboards.

“The parents in my district are fighting against the constant barrage of sexually explicit material in TV, movies, music and magazines. As a parent of a young child, the last thing that I need to worry about is my child getting the wrong message from a local billboard. Other parents that I’ve spoken to feel the same way,” Reboletti said.

House Bill 3620 passed committee and is waiting for a vote on the House floor. For additional information, Representative Reboletti can be contacted at (630) 530-2730.

# # #