President Vladimir Putin has signed into law a ban on cursing in movies and other forms of theatrical productions that are shown in Russia — and violators will be fined.
Specifically, the law prohibits swearing in any arts, cultural and entertainment showings in the nation, CNN reported. Films that have the filthy language won’t be granted distribution certificates and that means they can’t be shown in public movie theaters.
Books and CDs are also included in the censorship.
Under the new law, movies, books, musical productions and other forms of entertainment that have curse words can only be distributed in sealed packages with clearly labeled warning labels: “Contains obscene language,” CNN reported.
Lawbreakers face fines of up to $70, but that’s just the penalty for civilian individuals. Government officials can see fines of up to $40, and businesses, up to $1,400 and a three-month suspension, CNN reported.
The text of the new law “bans the use of obscene language when ensuring the rights of Russian citizens to the use of the state language, and protecting and developing language culture,” the Kremlin said in a statement.
The law’s effective date is likely to be July 1, the Russian-run ITAR-Tass news agency reported.
• Cheryl K. Chumley can be reached at cchumley@washingtontimes.com.
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