Bill would help retailers cover up magazines

A bill, giving retailers that cover up provocative magazines an affirmative defense against legal action, passed out of the Senate Judiciary, Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice Committee on Monday.

HB333, sponsored by Rep. Aaron Tilton, R-Springville, passed out with unanimous support and little discussion. The bill encourages stores to cover up racy magazine photos and keep them out of minors' eyeshot.

The affirmative defense would be a demonstration that steps were taken to comply with state law. It, potentially, would help lessen any charges a merchant might be accused of as a result of exposing minors to harmful material.

Sen. Mark Madsen, R-Lehi, presented the bill to the committee on Tilton's behalf.

It has already passed through the House and now goes to the Senate floor.