In a 7-0 vote this week, Woodbury, N.J., City Council repealed an obscure anti-cross-dressing law in the town. Although police don’t enforce the law, violators would face 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine.
No opposition to the law’s repeal was expressed during the public-comment section of the council meeting, held Dec. 12 in Woodbury City Hall.
The law’s repeal goes into effect immediately upon publication in a local newspaper, which is expected to take place Dec. 15, a city spokesperson said.
Woodbury has about 10,000 residents and serves as the county seat of Gloucester County, N.J.
The city recently embarked on multiple initiatives to help ensure a welcoming environment for LGBT residents, visitors and workers. Repealing the anti-cross-dressing law is an extension of those efforts.
Anthony Doran, president of Woodbury Community Pride, praised city officials for repealing the law.
“It just goes to show that the City of Woodbury is serious about making our town a safe and welcoming place for LGBTQ people,” Doran said in an email. “It was a no-brainer. The policy had to go, and the city acted quickly and decisively. We at Woodbury Community Pride look forward to continue working with the City leadership, business owners, and residents to make Woodbury the most LGBTQ-friendly town in South Jersey. Plus, this will make Drag Game Night at Eight & Sand Beer Co. on Jan. 14 even better!”
In a prior email, Woodbury Mayor Jessica M. Floyd said city officials continue to review the town’s ordinances and update or repeal those that are antiquated.