Law Puts Schoolboy Flower Seller Out of Business

Reuters ^

[Dallas]

SYDNEY (Reuters) - An entrepreneur schoolboy trying to save up for a skateboard by selling flowers has fallen foul of local laws by failing to take out a A$5 million ($2.70 million) public liability insurance policy.

Tyrone Drowley had been selling chrysanthemums for 50 cents a bunch from a table outside his family home in Wonthaggi in Victoria state until he was ordered to stop by local council officials.

"He hadn't been set up for long when the by-laws officer stopped him because he didn't have a A$20 council permit," Tyrone's mother Heidi told Australian television.

"The A$20 wasn't a problem, but she said he needed A$5 million in public liability insurance to get the permit. We found out that would cost A$500."

The ban highlights an ongoing frustration among event organizers in Australia who must meet the mounting cost of public liability insurance when holding fairs, outings or social events.

There has also been an indemnity crisis in the health service, with doctors warning of higher charges because of soaring insurance premiums as insurers struggle with huge payouts and increasing claims.

An advertising agency in Melbourne played the good Samaritan and gave Tyrone his skateboard. although the schoolboy remained unimpressed by the council's attitude.

"I think it sucks," he said.

[JRandomFreeper]

"I think it sucks," he said.

After his mugging by the lefties, I suspect this boy will become quite conservative.

/john

[Steve_Seattle]

Here in Seattle the new mayor has proposed raising the permit fee for street vendors outside Safeco Field from a one-time fee of $65 to a MONTHLY fee of $160. Go after the little guy, mayor. So far, Mayor Greg Nickles is showing himself to be a pompous, authoritarian pig. As for the street vendors, they add a lot of color and atmosphere to the area, and they undercut Safeco Field concession prices by about 50%, which is probably why the mayor is going after them. Of course, "public safety" is the bogus reason that is being given. (God, I am growing to detest the words "safe" and "safety." The whole Constitution can be abrogated on the grounds of "safety.")

[Ole Okie]

Of course, "public safety" is the bogus reason that is being given. (God, I am growing to detest the words "safe" and "safety." .....)

My very wise mom used to tell me that if you're going to give a false excuse, any excuse is as good as any other.

So I guess that this is as good as "It's for the children" (or "chirrun", if you prefer).

[Cicero]

Good thing he wasn't selling lemonade. They probably would have given him a life sentence for operating without approval from the Board of Health.

[Cicero]

So, has Seattle exchanged a bad mayor for an even worse mayor? I'm sorry to hear it.