NASHVILLE (AP) – A Democratic lawmaker says legislation that would fine individuals for letting their pants sag is unconstitutional and plans to ask for a state attorney general opinion.

The measure sponsored by state Rep. Joe Towns, a Memphis Democrat, passed the House Criminal Practice and Procedure Subcommittee Wednesday.

Under the proposal, a person could be fined as much as $1,000 for publicly wearing pants “below the person’s waistline ... in a manner that exposes the person’s underwear or bare buttocks.”

Towns said the behavior is offensive. But his Democratic colleague, Rep. Karen Camper of Memphis, said she believes the proposal is a violation of constitutional rights and said Thursday she is seeking legal advice.

Camper said she doesn’t agree with the behavior, but doesn’t think the bill is the answer.

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Read HB2099 at: http://www.capitol.tn.gov

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