By AP/KWMU
Jefferson City, MO. – The Missouri Senate Thursday voted to set 21 as the minimum age to be an exotic dancer. There's currently no age set into law.
The measure's sponsor, Sen. Sarah Steelman (R-Rolla), says she realizes dancers can make a lot of money. But she adds she's worried about young women who work in the nude being exploited.
The exotic dancer proposal was added to a larger piece of legislation on alcohol sales, which passed the Senate 22-10. It goes to the House.
Steelman says women can earn hundreds of dollars a day performing in adult clubs; but can be pressured into becoming involved in pornography. She says 18-year-old girls don't have the maturity to make decisions like this.