Las Vegas has a new law to stop pedestrians from taking a moment to enjoy the view from the pedestrian bridges that cross the Las Vegas Strip—and is threatening jail or fines for violators.
The bridges cross the immensely-wide high-traffic boulevard lined by casinos and hotels on both sides. The new rule, described as a “pedestrian flow ordinance,” forbids “stopping, standing or engaging in an activity that causes another person to stop” on the bridges, their stairs or escalators. Penalties range up to a $1000 fine or up to 6 months in jail.
Clark County (the Strip is actually not in the City of Las Vegas) says the law “will help to ensure our world-class tourism destination remains a safe place for people to visit and transverse.”
Opponents of the measure say it is unnecessary for traffic purposes and is actually aimed at street performers or activist demonstrators, although the Clark County commissioners deny that. The Nevada branch of the American Civil Liberties Union says it will sue to overturn the rule as a potential violation of free speech.
