St. Louis sued over street performer auditions

ST. LOUIS (AP) - The American Civil Liberties Union is suing St. Louis over the way the city approves and regulates street performers.

The process includes a mandatory audition and a $100 fee. The ACLU said Wednesday that both are unconstitutional.

ACLU attorney Tony Rothert says most cities don't require a permit for street performers, and those who do typically charge far less than $100.

City spokeswoman Maggie Crane says the ordinance seeks to balance competing needs on busy streets. She says the city is "happy" to litigate the matter.

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