rights
City Council approves legalizing bathhouses in move advocates say is critical to public health
By John Russell at LGBTQ Nation
· June 26, 2026
· 3 min read
Minneapolis has set the stage for legal bathhouses and adult sex venues to operate in the city for the first time since the 1980s. On Thursday, the Minneapolis City Council approved a pair of measures repealing a 1988 ordinance that banned such businesses at the height of the AIDS epidemic. Related
Key takeaway On Thursday, the Minneapolis City Council approved a pair of measures repealing a 1988 ordinance that banned such businesses at the height of the AIDS epidemic.
Why this matters
The Minneapolis City Council's decision to repeal the ban on bathhouses and adult sex venues marks a significant shift in the city's approach to public health and LGBTQ+ rights. By acknowledging the failure of the 1988 ordinance to eradicate adult sex gatherings and instead driving them underground, the council recognizes the need for a more nuanced and safe approach. The involvement of LGBTQ+ and safer sex advocates, including the Safer Sex Spaces Coalition, has been crucial in highlighting the importance of regulated and safe spaces for the community. As the city moves forward with creating a framework for zoning, licensing, and regulating adult bathhouses, it will be essential to prioritize consent, health, and safety. The success of this effort will depend on the ability of city officials to balance the needs of the community with concerns around public health and safety, potentially setting a precedent for other cities to follow.
About this story
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Category: rights ·
Published: June 26, 2026 ·
Source: LGBTQ Nation ·
Reading time: 3 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Minneapolis has set the stage for legal bathhouses and adult sex venues to operate in the city for the first time since the 1980s. On Thursday, the Minneapolis City Council approved a pair of measures repealing a 1988 ordinance that banned such businesses at the height of the AIDS epidemic. Related
When was this published? This article was first published on June 26, 2026 by LGBTQ Nation and curated for LGBTQ News readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by John Russell at LGBTQ Nation. To learn more about how LGBTQ News selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more rights coverage from LGBTQ News, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .