Governor John Bel Edwards Signs Law Raising Minimum Stripper Age to 21

Louisiana strip clubs can no longer employ dancers under the age of 21, this under a new law signed by Governor John Bel Edwards.

The governor signed legislation raising the dancers' minimum age from 18. The change takes effect August 1.

Bill sponsor Sen. Ronnie Johns (R-Lake Charles) says the provision will help to fight human trafficking in Louisiana. New Orleans already enforces a similar ordinance.

Each chamber unanimously supported the bill.

Debate over the legislation was briefly derailed by a proposal from Rep. Kenny Havard of Jackson, suggesting strippers should be between 21 and 28 years old and less than 160 pounds. The amendment drew strong criticism but Havard called it a joke about overregulation.