St. Louis Stops Auditions for Street Performer's Licenses

In the midst of being sued over program

If Frederick Walker has his way, St. Louis street performers may soon have an easier time getting a license.

In May, Walker, a 70-year-old jazz saxophonist represented by the ACLU of Eastern Missouri, sued the city over a $100 fee and a requirement that buskers audition in front of a streets department employee before hitting the streets.

His efforts have already born some fruit, as the city has agreed to stop requiring auditions.

The fee and audition ran afoul of constitutional protections for "expressive activity," according to the ACLU's complaint.