Local Women To Testify For Porn Tax

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. -- Two women who used to work in the adult entertainment industry are set to testify Monday at an Assembly committee hearing in favor of a 25 percent tax levied on revenues.

Shelley Lubben and Daphne Khoury prepared their testimony Sunday afternoon in northwest Bakersfield, arguing why a tax on pornographers is necessary.

The tax, proposed by Assm. Charles Calderon, (D) - Whittier, would be on the gross revenues of business like strip clubs, video and adult toy stores, and even pay-per-view channels.

If approved, it could raise more than $500 million every year to fight secondary effects supporters say porn has on drug abuse, rape, and domestic violence.

Opponents, including the California Association of Club Executives and the Free Speech Coalition, say the tax does nothing to help the possible $20 billion shortfall.

Those organizations are also expected to bring adult industry professionals to tomorrow's hearing.