SACRAMENTO, CA — Representatives from the adult entertainment industry have been doing at least one civic duty for more than a decade, thanks to the successful tradition known as the Free Speech Coalition’s “Celebrate Free Speech Lobbying Days.” This year’s April event will be the 11th time that elected officials in California’s state capital have had the opportunity to hear first-hand how proposed and passed legislation affects the real men and women whose livelihood is targeted.On April 20th and 21st, 2008, Sacramento, CA will once again meet professionals from within the adult industry, as they participate in the 11th Annual “Celebrate Free Speech Lobbying Days” event.
On Sunday, April 20th, performers, business owners, and others will assemble in the Sheraton Grand Hotel lobby and undergo training from 4:00 pm – 9:00pm in preparation for the next day’s activism. On Monday, a full 9:00 – 6:00 pm workday will be observed, with lobbyists meeting with legislators and attending a legislative reception at Chops Steak Seafood & Bar at 1117 11th Street in Sacramento.
A press release from FSC quotes director Diane Duke as saying that, “The question we have to ask ourselves is, do we want people at the California State Capital making decisions about adult entertainment, when they don’t understand how the industry works or who works within it.”
According to Duke, “More than 50,000 people are employed by the industry in California, and their lives are impacted by these lawmakers.”
FSC California lobbyist Matt Gray explains that “Legislation that is being bantered about includes additional taxes upon adult entertainment and additional government regulation of production sets.”
Gray contends that “It is critical that our elected officials comprehend the vital role this $4 billion California industry plays in our economy, so they understand that what’s bad for the adult entertainment industry is bad for California.”
Those hoping to become involved with this year’s “Celebrate Free Speech Lobbying Days” are encouraged to contact the Free Speech Coalition for more information.
