Minneapolis City Council Moves Closer to Dress Code Regulation

The Minneapolis City Council is advancing an ordinance aimed at combating discrimination through business dress codes. This development follows the unanimous approval by the Business, Housing & Zoning Committee. If fully approved, the ordinance will take effect on January 1, 2027.

The ordinance mandates that businesses licensed to sell liquor or beer must display their dress codes at their entrances. This requirement seeks to address instances of discrimination known as ‘velvet rope discrimination,’ where individuals are denied entry based on attributes like race, gender, or orientation.

Committee member Jason Chavez highlighted a downtown Minneapolis case where a White man was allowed entry wearing a Twins shirt, while a Black man in similar attire was denied access. Chavez also shared his own experience with discrimination when he was refused entry due to wearing a rainbow pouch, whereas another person with a black pouch was admitted.

Chavez commented, “Racism exists in this country. Our aim is to ensure transparency in dress codes to prevent discrimination.” Fellow council members Pearll Warren and Jamal Osman also supported the ordinance. Warren emphasized the need for explicit dress code postings, saying, “If an establishment restricts ballcaps and jerseys, it must be clearly stated to prevent discrimination.”

Council Member Michael Rainville expressed hope that the ordinance would ease community concerns, acknowledging the experiences and insights of his colleagues. He stated, “Though I haven’t personally experienced this, I trust my fellow council members’ judgment. If clear dress code rules can help, it’s worth implementing.”

Fox News Digital reached out to the Business, Housing & Zoning Committee and other Minneapolis City Council members for comments but did not receive an immediate response. Story tips can be sent to Lindsay Kornick, associate editor at Fox News Digital, via email or Twitter.