A Law Reining in Reality Shows? Thank Snooki and ‘Jersey Shore’

Proposed "Snookiville" law would give New Jersey towns increased power over unscripted shows that film there

Nicole "Snooki" Polizzi: Reality-TV personality. Head ambassador for Guidette Nation.

Legislative muse?

Getty ImagesYes, it is so.

New Jersey state assemblyman Ronald Dancer introduced a bill Monday that would give towns increased control over reality shows that film in them.

Also read: Snooki Has a Boy: Six-Pound, Five-Ounce Lorenzo Dominic

The proposed legislation, dubbed the "Snookiville" law after the "Jersey Shore" star, would give towns the authority to regulate and license the filming of reality shows — as well as require the shows to foot the bill for extra police officers for public safety.

A number of reality titles film in the Garden State, including "Jersey Shore," it spinoff "Snooki & JWoww," "Real Housewives of New Jersey" and "Cake Boss."

Also read: And Now, the News With Snooki (Video)

"These shows can attract crowds, which can benefit local businesses and challenge a community's resources," Dancer said in a statement. "This bill will permit local officials to make sure taxpayers don't get 'Snook'-ered or public safety is compromised when reality stars such as Snooki or J-Woww come to town."

"Jersey Shore," which primarily films in Seaside Heights, N.J., has brought its share of turbulence to its host city, with drunken public shenanigans, bar fights and other scuffles. (The series' final season premieres Oct. 4.)

That raucous reputation no doubt led to difficulties with "Snooki & JWoww," which was denied a request for a filming permit in Hoboken because the series would have required a 24-hour permit, in violation of the city's laws. (The show eventually found a home in Jersey City.)

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