Anti panhandling laws

[Benton]

(11-04-2015, 12:43 PM)fredtoast Wrote: There is a big legal debate over laws that prohibit "panhandling" or asking for money.  Some courts are now saying that they violate free speech.  Obviously any aggressive behavior is still going to be illegal, but what about just asking people for money on the streets?  Should that be outlawed?  Would it make a difference if the person was holding a sing instead of just asking?

I disagree with anti-panhandling laws.

Yes, it's sometimes annoying. Sure, it's not always convenient when somebody stops and asks if you've got bus fair or if you'd like to save the puppies or whatever.

But as long as they aren't impeding traffic or being a clear nuisance, I think it falls under freedom of speech. And by nuisance, I mean if somebody follows you for two blocks asking if you'd like to  give money. And — given that I live in a rural area — there are times when the traffic is an issue. Every year the VFW collects at an intersection near my subdivision. It's a great cause, but I dread it. Everybody stops and tosses in a few bucks and it blocks traffic up for miles.

Plus, I hate slippery slope arguments, but it's not a far jump from most panhandling laws to banning people trying to make legitimate sales. For some sales types, going door to door or in the general public is the most effective avenue.


And to the bolded, I don't think it matters if they sing. Unless they've got instruments. Then they can put their case out and work for tips.