Judge Blocks Enforcement Of Louisiana Stripper Age Limit

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — A federal judge has temporarily blocked enforcement of a new Louisiana law aimed at keeping people under age 21 from performing in strip clubs.

U.S. District Judge Carl Barbier issued the order in a lawsuit filed last month by three anonymous women — ages 18, 19 and 20.

Backers called the law a tool to fight human trafficking. The women argue it violates their right to free expression, illegally deprives them of income and discriminates against them based on age and gender.

Barbier's ruling, dated Friday, says a delay in enforcement pending further action would do no harm to the state, while immediate enforcement would cause "irreparable injury" in the form of lost income for the women.

Hearings have not yet been set in the case.

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