HB 1562: Fortune Telling
Overview Resources
Big Concept Resources
- The broader issue is whether the state should regulate fortune telling as consumer protection or treat it as protected expression.
- https://www.spotlightpa.org/news/2024/10/pennsylvania-tarot-fortune-telling-illegal-ban-hanover-astrology/
Pros
- Multiple federal courts have ruled that fortune-telling is protected speech under the First Amendment.
- https://volokh.com/2010/06/10/marylands-highest-court-holds-that-fortune-telling-ban-violates-the-first-amendment/
- https://www.aclu.org/press-releases/marylands-high-court-strikes-down-montgomery-county-fortunetelling-ban-under-first
- The current law criminalizes a legitimate service industry and prevents individuals from earning a living through fortune telling.
Cons
- Critics say fortune telling can be used to deceive vulnerable people out of money.
- https://www.spotlightpa.org/news/2024/10/pennsylvania-tarot-fortune-telling-illegal-ban-hanover-astrology/
- Some may argue the state should keep consumer protections against scams and fraud.
- Opponents may say repealing the ban removes a clear tool for law enforcement.
