government
Minneapolis bathhouse ordinances approved by council, paving way for legalization
By Nick Longworth at FOX 9 KMSP (FOX)
· June 25, 2026
· 1 min read
Outlawed in 1988 as a response to the AIDS epidemic, the Minneapolis City Council has approved changes to city code that would pave the way for adult bathhouses – in which consenting adults can engage in sexual activity legally.
Why this matters in The Minneapolis
The Minneapolis City Council's approval of changes to city code regarding adult bathhouses marks a significant shift in the city's approach to public health and personal freedom. This decision reverses a decades-long ban that was initially implemented as a response to the AIDS epidemic in 1988. As the city moves forward with potential legalization, it will be crucial to monitor how these establishments are regulated and zoned, particularly in relation to residential areas and existing businesses. The impact on local public health initiatives and resources will also be worth watching, as the city seeks to balance individual rights with community well-being. Furthermore, the council's decision may spark conversations about the role of city government in regulating personal behavior and the ways in which Minneapolis can learn from other cities that have already navigated similar issues.
About this story
Original reporting by FOX 9 KMSP (FOX) . The Minneapolis surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit FOX 9 KMSP (FOX) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: government ·
Published: June 25, 2026 ·
Source: FOX 9 KMSP (FOX) ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Outlawed in 1988 as a response to the AIDS epidemic, the Minneapolis City Council has approved changes to city code that would pave the way for adult bathhouses – in which consenting adults can engage in sexual activity legally.
When was this published? This article was first published on June 25, 2026 by FOX 9 KMSP (FOX) and curated for The Minneapolis readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Nick Longworth at FOX 9 KMSP (FOX). To learn more about how The Minneapolis selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more government coverage from The Minneapolis, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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