A bill that would ban low-riding trousers that expose the wearer's boxers or briefs in the state of Tennessee has won approval from a legislative subcommittee.
House Bill 2099, known as the "Saggy Pants Bill," would impose fines of up to $1,000 on violators, The Memphis Commercial Appeal reported Thursday. The money would be dedicated to the purchase of school supplies, including books and sports equipment.
Rep. Karen Camper, a Democrat from Memphis, accused her colleagues, including Rep. Joe Towns, a Memphis Democrat who sponsored the bill, of "trying to legislate fashion." She also said that teens would get misdemeanor records needlessly.
"My question to you Mr. Towns is: What is the demographics you are targeting with this legislation?" she asked.
Towns responded angrily that white and Hispanic teens as well as black ones have been known to expose their underwear.
"It has nothing to do with fashion," he said. "It has to do with decency and hygiene."
The bill, approved by subcommittee Wednesday, now goes to the House Judiciary Committee.
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House Bill 2099, known as the "Saggy Pants Bill," would impose fines of up to $1,000 on violators, The Memphis Commercial Appeal reported Thursday. The money would be dedicated to the purchase of school supplies, including books and sports equipment.
Rep. Karen Camper, a Democrat from Memphis, accused her colleagues, including Rep. Joe Towns, a Memphis Democrat who sponsored the bill, of "trying to legislate fashion." She also said that teens would get misdemeanor records needlessly.
"My question to you Mr. Towns is: What is the demographics you are targeting with this legislation?" she asked.
Towns responded angrily that white and Hispanic teens as well as black ones have been known to expose their underwear.
"It has nothing to do with fashion," he said. "It has to do with decency and hygiene."
The bill, approved by subcommittee Wednesday, now goes to the House Judiciary Committee.
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