Tomorrow, Chicago’s City Council will be voting on a new ordinance that will make SERIOUS problems for local bands, venues, and pretty much anyone in the arts. Why they are doing this, I can’t tell. But I do know that this will be a real problem and will stifle the creative community in our fair city.

Check out http://savechicagoculture.org/ for more details on how you can help this ordinance from happening. Or just contact your alderman.

The “Event Promoters” ordinance requires any event promoter to have a license from the city of Chicago and liability insurance of $300,000, but that’s just the start:

The definition of “event promoter” is so loosely defined it could apply to a band that books its own shows or a theater company that’s in town for a one-week run.

“Event Promoter” must be licensed and will pay $500 – $2000 depending on expected audience size.

To get the license, applicant must be over 21, get fingerprinted, submit to a background check, and jump over several other hurdles.

This ordinance seems targeted towards smaller venues, since those with 500+ permanent seats are exempt.

Police must be notified at least 7 days in advance of event.