The Minneapolis City Council has taken a formal step toward approving a citywide dress code transparency ordinance, with a full council vote scheduled for August 27. The proposed rule, which passed unanimously in the Business, Housing & Zoning Committee on Tuesday, aims to address concerns about discriminatory entry practices at licensed establishments.
Key provisions of the ordinance
Under the measure, any business licensed to sell liquor or beer in Minneapolis would be required to post its dress code requirements prominently near the entrance if the ordinance is enacted. The rule would not apply to health and safety policies such as "no shirts, no shoes, no service" mandates, which are regulated by state law. If approved, the ordinance would take effect on January 1, 2027.
Rationale behind the proposal
City Council members and committee advocates describe the ordinance as a response to what they term "velvet rope discrimination"—a practice where patrons are denied entry based on factors such as race, gender, or sexual orientation. Councilmember Jason Chavez, who identifies as LGBTQ, cited a high-profile incident at a downtown Minneapolis bar as a motivating example. According to reporting by KSTP, Chavez described a scenario where a White man wearing a Twins shirt was granted entry while a Black man wearing an identical shirt was denied access. Chavez also shared a personal anecdote, stating he was denied entry to a bar while wearing a rainbow pouch, while another patron in similar attire but with a black pouch was allowed inside.
Scope and limitations of the ordinance
The ordinance applies exclusively to businesses holding liquor or beer licenses, excluding establishments governed solely by state health regulations. Supporters argue that publicly posting dress codes will increase transparency and reduce arbitrary or discriminatory enforcement. Opponents of the measure, while not detailed in the reporting, have not been publicly cited in the available sources as raising formal objections to the ordinance itself.
Next steps in the legislative process
The full City Council is scheduled to discuss the ordinance during its August 27 meeting, where members will consider whether to advance it to a final vote. If passed, the rule would become effective in early 2027, providing businesses with a transition period to comply with the new transparency requirements.