St. Louis County Council Passes Bill Prohibiting Aggressive Money Solicitation
The St. Louis County Council has passed a bill, with a 6-1 vote, that prohibits individuals from aggressively soliciting money in public spaces. The legislation, which awaits County Executive Sam Page's signature, specifically bans actions such as following people, blocking roads, or approaching individuals in an intimidating manner to ask for money. Additionally, the bill makes it illegal to solicit money on public buses, near banks, on private property, and during nighttime hours. Councilman Mark Harder, R-Ballwin, supported the bill, citing concerns for the safety of both drivers and solicitors, noting instances where individuals have been injured or killed while soliciting on roadways. However, Councilwoman Lisa Clancy, D-Maplewood, cast the sole dissenting vote, arguing that the bill is unconstitutional and will likely be overturned by courts, leading to costly legal battles for the county. The Rev. Larry Rice of New Life Evangelistic Center also opposed the bill, suggesting it could further criminali... 
