Panhandling banned in Moraine

MORAINE, Ohio (WDTN) - Moraine has now joined the growing list of communities that are banning panhandling.

City council members passed the measure at Thursday night's meeting.

It requires beggars to adhere to a reasonable time, place and manner when soliciting. That means busy streets and medians are out of the question.

Panhandlers must also register with the police department.

They will receive a free identification card that must be carried.

City leaders say it's about keeping everyone safe.

"There was a potential for a large number of accidents with people either trying to stop and help these people that were begging or for those people themselves to get injured," said Moraine Mayor, Elaine Allison.

The City Council also banned opening an internet cafe in the city fearing they might spark illegal gambling operations.