Appeals Court Permits Texas to Enforce Law Restricting Drag Shows
An appeals court on Thursday permitted Texas to enforce a law that limits certain performances, including those involving sexual prosthetics.
Background of the Law
The law, Senate Bill 12 (S.B. 12), enables local governments to regulate "sexually oriented" performances to ensure public health, safety, or welfare. It also prohibits children from being near such performances.
Official Statement
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton called the appellate ruling a “victory” for protecting children from “erotic” drag shows.
“I will always work to shield our children from exposure to erotic and inappropriate sexually oriented performances,” he said. “It is an honor to have defended this law, ensuring that our state remains safe for families and children, and I look forward to continuing to vigorously defend it on remand before the district court.”
Opposition to the Law
Several drag and LGBTQIA+ groups have challenged the law by suing Paxton. They argue that the legislation is excessively broad, vague, and infringes on First Amendment rights.
According to their complaint, the law "unconstitutionally singles out drag performances as a disfavored form of expression.”
Key Points
- The appeals court overturned a lower court ruling against S.B. 12.
- The law restricts performances viewed as “sexually oriented.”
- Children are banned from proximity to these performances.
- Texas Attorney General emphasizes protecting children and families.
- LGBTQIA+ advocates argue the law violates constitutional free speech rights.
Author’s summary: The appeals court's decision to uphold Texas's restrictive law on drag performances highlights ongoing legal and cultural conflicts around public morality and free expression.