AB 1576 Passes Arts & Entertainment Committee

SACRAMENTO—After a delay caused by the absence of two committee members from the panel, the California Assembly's Arts, Entertainment, Sports, Tourism and Internet Media Committee passed AB 1576, which would require that condoms and other barrier-protective devices be used in the making of adult films in the state. As today's hearing, which began shortly after 9 a.m., drew to a close, the vote had been three in favor of passage, one against and one abstention, with Assemblymembers Jimmy Gomez and Marc Levine not present. However, after being contacted by committee staff, at least one of those two voted for passage. The hearing on AB 1576 took about 45 minutes, and the committee heard from several proponents and opponents, including AIDS Healthcare Foundation's Rand Martin and former performers Cameron Bay and Rod Daily speaking in favor, and attorney Marc Randazza, actress Kayden Kross, and Valley Industry and Commerce Association president Stuart Waldman speaking against. A more complete report on the hearing will be posted later this afternoon.