Appeals Court Permits Texas to Enforce Controversial Drag Show Law
An appeals court on Thursday approved Texas' enforcement of S.B. 12, a law limiting certain performances, including those involving sexual prosthetics. This decision overturns a previous lower court ruling against the law.
Details of the Law
S.B. 12 authorizes local governments to regulate "sexually oriented" performances to protect public health, safety, and welfare. Additionally, the law prohibits children from being present near such performances.
Statements from Officials
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton described the appellate ruling as 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,” Paxton 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 from LGBTQIA+ Groups
Several drag and LGBTQIA+ organizations challenged the law, arguing it is overly broad, vague, and infringes upon First Amendment rights. They claimed the law unfairly targets drag performances as a disfavored form of speech.
Summary
The appeals court’s decision allows Texas to implement a law restricting certain performances in drag shows, sparking significant debate over freedom of expression and children’s protection.
Author's summary: The court's ruling endorses Texas' authority to regulate drag performances citing child protection, fueling legal debates on free speech and LGBTQIA+ rights.