Tenn. Senate says fish, birds OK in barber shops

[March 18, 2010]  NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) -- Let the record reflect that the Tennessee state Senate has endorsed fish tanks and live birds in barber shops.

The Senate on Wednesday voted 30-1 for a measure allowing barber shops to display live fish and birds. A companion bill passed the House earlier this month and the legislation is headed to the governor.

Barber shop owner Lori Corbin had been asked to drain the built-in fish tank at her shop in nearby Mt. Pleasant following a state inspection. Existing law bars birds, fish or other live animals in barber shops, except for animals that help people with disabilities.

The bill has provoked some laughs on Capitol Hill.

Corbin said she wants fish in her barber shop because they "make you relaxed."

[Associated Press; By LUCAS L. JOHNSON II]

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