Thinking about making a film ? Better leave out the foul language if you want it to be seen in Russia . The same goes for plays . Even rock stars will need to leave their potty mouths at home . Russian President Vladimir Putin signed off on a new law Monday that bans swearing at arts , cultural and entertainment events in the country . Any new film containing obscene language wo n't be granted a distribution certificate , so there 's no chance of seeing it at the movie theater . And copies of books , CDs or films containing swearing can only be distributed in a sealed package labeled `` Contains obscene language , '' a Kremlin statement said . According to state news agency ITAR-Tass , individuals caught using foul language face a fine of up to $ 70 , while officials can be fined up to $ 40 and businesses nearly $ 1,400 . They face a higher fine and a three-month suspension of business for repeated offenses . Determination of what counts as profane language will be done through `` an independent examination , '' the news agency said . According to the Kremlin , the legislation `` 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 law could come into effect as soon as July 1 , ITAR-Tass said , but it does n't apply to cultural and artistic works that have already been issued . While some may hail attempts to clean up the nation 's language , it will likely be seen by critics as the latest step under Putin 's leadership to limit freedom of expression and promote a conservative , nationalist viewpoint . A report by rights group Amnesty International in January highlighted a denial of `` basic freedoms '' in Russia , which last year introduced a law barring anyone from talking positively about homosexuality in earshot of minors . Pussy Riot members attacked in Russian city while eating at McDonalds .
Putin signs off on new law banning language in media , film and books . Under the law , individuals and businesses can be fined for using foul language . It affects live arts and entertainment venues , including plays and concerts . New films containing swear words will n't get a copyright certificate .