Michigan, Minnesota consider digital billboard bans
Michigan and Minnesota are both contemplating statewide bans on digital billboards through legislation supported by affiliates of Scenic America.
The proposed ban in Michigan would put a two-year freeze on rollouts, while the Minnesota moratorium – which was rejected by lawmakers last week, but could yet be adopted – would last for three years.
The bills have been promoted by the Scenic Michigan and Scenic Minnesota lobbying groups, both affiliated to the national Scenic America organisation, long known for its opposition to the spread of outdoor advertising.
In Minnesota, the bill was defeated in a senate committee by eight votes to five, although seven members were absent – a number which could easily have resulted in it passing if just a few of them had supported it.
In Michigan, meanwhile, the House of Representatives’ Great Lakes and Environment Committee has yet to discuss the plan.
Many U.S. cities have banned or closely restricted digital billboards. In the case of outright prohibition, authorities often cite the need for further research into their effect on road safety – one reason for the moratoriums proposed in Minnesota and Michigan.
But moves to legislate at state level have been less common. Montana in 2008 imposed a moratorium similar to those being sought in Michigan and Minnesota; Alaska, Hawaii, Maine and Vermont ban billboards altogether but have not singled out digital.
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another outdoor discussion you may want to share
Posted 31/03/10 17:28 by Jim Simpson
http://blog.cleveland.com/metro/2010/03/digital_billboards_being_studi.html