Emmett Rowan wishes to open an adult bookstore. The location he has chosen is in a shopping center located next to a junior high school. The city refuses to approve his application (required for licensing of adult bookstores) because the proposed location violates the city ordinance that prohibits location of such stores within 50 feet of any public school, church or daycare facility.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The ordinance is considered a valid regulation because it is based on the government's interest in protecting public welfare, particularly minors, from exposure to adult content. This type of regulation is generally permissible under the First Amendment as long as it is designed to serve a significant government interest and does not unreasonably limit alternative avenues for the communication of the material.

Emmett Rowan Wishes to Open an Adult Bookstore