Minneapolis City Council Approves Legalization of Adult Bathhouses

On Thursday, the Minneapolis City Council overturned a 1988 ordinance that banned the operation of bathhouses and adult sex venues. This ban was introduced at the height of the HIV/AIDS epidemic. The decision was passed by a majority vote of nine to two.

According to LGBTQ Nation , the repeal is the result of a campaign led by human rights organizations since 2017. In 2023, the Safer Sex Space Coalition was formed to advocate for the removal of legislative language targeting LGBTQ+ individuals and people living with HIV.

Public health officials note that legalizing such venues will assist in HIV prevention by enabling outreach to hard-to-reach populations. In 2018, city authorities set a goal that by 2030, 90% of people with HIV would know their status and receive treatment.

The adopted ordinances are the first step toward creating a zoning, licensing, and regulatory framework for these establishments in Minneapolis. Mayor Jacob Frey is expected to sign the documents, after which the development of the relevant regulations will begin.