Minneapolis City Council Repeals Ban on Commercial Sex Venues Ahead of Pride Weekend

The Minneapolis City Council voted on June 26, 2026, to repeal the ban on commercial sex venues, including bathhouses, just before the Twin Cities Pride Festival. The proposal received support from nine council members, all of whom are Democrats, while two members opposed it. Council member Elizabeth Shaffer expressed concerns from constituents and highlighted the city's expected budget shortfall, questioning the priority of the repeal. The ban, which had been in place since 1988 during the AIDS epidemic, was criticized by advocacy group Action Network for driving sexually-related gatherings underground, which they argue compromises public health. The group stated that commercial sex spaces can promote safer sex practices and enhance access to health services. Jason Chavez, a council member and co-author of the repeal, noted the historical context of the ban and its ties to homophobia. The repeal is part of a broader initiative called the 'Pride in Policy' package aimed at supporting LGBTQ residents, which includes updates to city codes and public indecency laws. The council will need to establish zoning and safety regulations following the repeal, as other Minnesota cities already permit commercial sex venues under various levels of oversight.