A Minneapolis City Council committee unanimously approved an ordinance requiring businesses licensed to sell liquor or beer to post any dress code at their entrances, with a full council vote expected Aug. 27.
The measure targets what council members called “velvet rope discrimination” — using unclear dress rules to deny entry based on race, gender or sexual orientation rather than stated policy.
Jason Chavez cited cases in which a White patron was admitted in a Twins shirt while a Black patron was turned away in similar clothing, and said he was once denied entry over a rainbow pouch.
If the full council passes the ordinance, it would take effect Jan. 1, 2027; state-regulated health and safety rules such as “no shirts, no shoes, no service” would remain outside its scope.
Supporters including Michael Rainville said the posting requirement is a modest transparency step that could ease community concerns about discriminatory treatment at bars and restaurants.