Texas Strip Clubs Sue Over State-Imposed Cover Charge

AUSTIN — Texas gentleman’s club owners are attempting to block a new state-imposed $5 cover charge that is slated to go into effect Jan. 1, reportedly raising an estimated $40 million annually.

The cover charge is intended by officials to offset rising health care expenses for uninsured residents, regardless of their citizenship status, and to finance sexual assault prevention programs.

Club owners have filed a suit claiming that the surcharge violates their constitutionally protected free speech rights, creates the impression that their patrons are prone to rape and thus are required to fund programs that address the crime and that this is nothing more than a discriminatory tax meant to hurt their businesses.

The bill's backers claim that they are merely trying to raise money for under-funded programs and not trying to imply that consumers of adult entertainment commit sex crimes, and that they are not trying to hurt legitimate business operations.

"Clearly we're disappointed by the lawsuit; we were really hoping this industry would see this as an opportunity to do something positive for the communities they're in," said Annette Burrhus-Clay, executive director of the Texas Association Against Sexual Assault. "We're going to fight it because we believe in the merits of our position."

The club owners' suit, filed against Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott and Comptroller Susan Combs, states in part: “Exotic nude dancing is protected speech under the 1st Amendment," and claims that the surcharge "singles out income derived from protected speech for a burden the state places on no other income."

Gov. Rick Perry backed similar legislation in 2004, when a surcharge on clubs was sought to raise money for the state’s school system but was defeated in session.

Related:  

Copyright © 2025 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More News

Angelface Baddies Debuts 'Daddies for Baddies' Line

Wellness brand Angelface Baddies has introduced its new Daddies for Baddies line of men's wellness products.

Aylo Fined $5 Million as FTC, Utah Settle Safety Practices Complaint

The Federal Trade Commission and the state of Utah on Wednesday settled a complaint against Aylo, requiring the company to pay a $5 million penalty and implement measures to prevent illegal content from appearing on its sites.

Orion Debuts 'RC Vibrating Butt Plug' From 'Anos' Line

Orion Wholesale has introduced the RC Vibrating Butt Plug with Flexible Arms from its Anos line.

Playharda Wholesale, Pure Envy Ink European Distribution Deal

Playharda Wholesale has signed a deal with pleasure brand Pure Envy for distribution in the U.K. and Europe.

XR Brands Launches 'Creature Cocks' Line

XR Brands has introduced its new Creature Cocks collection of men's underwear.

Tenga Launches 2025 Christmas Advent Calendar

Pleasure brand Tenga has launched a 2025 Christmas Advent calendar, now available for pre-order.

The Dungeon Store Debuts 'Thing Noir' Violet Wand Attachment

The Dungeon Store has released the Thing Noir violet wand conductive e-stim accessory.

Pjur, Magasin du Nord Partner for 'Flex Area' Campaign

Pjur and retail brand Magasin du Nord have partnered for the wellness brand’s Flex Area campaign.

Kheper Releases New 'Think Like a Slut' Party Game

Kheper Games has released the new "Think Like a Slut" party game.

Honey Play Box, Creative Conceptions Ink European Distro Deal

Honey Play Box has signed a deal with Creative Conceptions for distribution in the U.K. and Europe.

Show More