Lincoln Municipal Code Chapter 9.18 prohibits aggressive solicitation including panhandling that involves intimidation, blocking pedestrians, or approaching ATMs, while protecting passive panhandling under First Amendment limits.
LMC 9.18 prohibits aggressive solicitation defined as soliciting accompanied by intimidation, persistent following after refusal, blocking pedestrian or vehicular travel, or approaching within prescribed distance of ATMs, outdoor dining patios, and bus stops. Solicitation in roadways or median strips is also restricted for safety. Passive sign-holding and verbal requests in public forums remain protected. The ordinance was crafted to survive First Amendment scrutiny following federal court rulings that struck down broader bans, focusing on conduct rather than message.
Aggressive solicitation is a class III misdemeanor punishable by fines up to $500, jail up to three months, or both, with repeat offenses upgrading penalties and potential mental-health diversion options.
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