Gov. Blagojevich signs law restricting zoning of adult entertainment facilities

"This law responds to the concerns of Vermilion county residents and is a sensible step to take," said Gov. Blagojevich.

The bill, sponsored by Sen. Rick Winkel, Jr. (R-Urbana) and Rep. Bill Black (R- Danville), was drafted in response to concerns of residents in the Vermilion County town of Oakwood. Residents are concerned that an adult entertainment book and video store may be built just north of the village's limits. The potential business location is approximately 2,700 feet from a church.

"I appreciate the Governor's willingness to quickly review Senate Bill 2277 and sign it into law," said Rep. Black. "I believe that a 3,000 feet buffer zone between adult entertainment businesses and schools, churches, day care centers and public parks is a reasonable separation particularly in our small rural communities."

The new business, which would be located outside of Oakwood's corporate limits, cannot be regulated by village ordinance. This law will govern where adult entertainment stores or clubs can be located on unincorporated county land. The new law applies only to future businesses and not to already established stores or clubs that may be within 3,000 feet of a school, church, or park. The law also requires the same 3,000 feet distance between adult entertainment stores or clubs and day care centers, cemeteries, and forest preserves.

The law becomes effective immediately.