Louisiana State Police are kicking street performers off Bourbon Street ahead of New Orleans hosting the Super Bowl on Sunday.
Police have told several performers they could face arrest if they try to set up on Bourbon Street before the game is over, according to The Music & Culture Coalition of New Orleans (MaCCNO), a nonprofit that advocates for musicians.
"We've heard from several street performers that LSP are telling them that no one can set up on Bourbon Street until after the Super Bowl, and if they do they will be arrested," MaCCNO posted on X. "They are being directed to Jackson Square instead."
Kate Stegall, a spokesperson for the state police's New Orleans region, confirmed the crackdown on Bourbon performers in an email to Gambit.
She said in a statement that state law "restricts anyone from blocking a sidewalk, street, or public passage" and that state troopers are enforcing that law this week.
"On the heels of the January 1st events, with the increased law enforcement resources in New Orleans, and in anticipation of the large pedestrian crowds on Bourbon street, Troopers are enforcing those violations," Stegall said.
Meanwhile, under state law, anyone 18 and older without a criminal record will be able to carry a concealed firearm on Bourbon.
Restrictions include a ban on guns in bars, casinos, government buildings, along parade routes and in and around the Superdome. Carrying a gun under the influence of drugs or alcohol is also illegal.
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