Bay Area Hooters Restaurants Facing Complaints From NOW
SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS)-The National Organization for Women is saying Hooters has to decide if it's a family restaurant chain or a provider of vicarious sexual entertainment.
The group has filed complaints against Hooters with police and prosecutors in San Francisco, San Bruno, Sacramento and Orange County.
KCBS' Chris Filippi Reports:
NOW California President Patty Bellasalma said her organization is acting because Hooters is expanding.
"They're actually locating now in family-oriented places, in tourist areas," said Bellasalma.
NOW accuses Hooters of getting around sexual-harassment laws by listing itself with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission as a provider of vicarious sexual entertainment. Bellasalma says if that's the case, then children should not be allowed inside.
But some customers say they don't want to see any changes, they like the short shorts and tight shirts that are worn by Hooters girls.
"Is it a plus that the women are dressed more scantily clad? Absolutely, but it doesn't make a difference because the food is good and it's a good environment," said one visitor to the restaurant.
Hooters has yet to comment in response to NOW's complaint.
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