Map Shows States Restricting Drag Shows for Children
Summary
A federal appeals court recently allowed Florida to enforce a law that restricts children from attending certain performances, including drag shows, by venues. Similar laws or restrictions on drag events exist in six states, with different rules and levels of enforcement.Key Facts
- Florida’s Protection of Children Act bans letting children attend shows that depict nudity, sexual conduct, or sexual excitement.
- The 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled 8-5 to uphold this law, allowing its enforcement while legal challenges continue.
- Businesses that break the law can face fines up to $10,000 and risk losing operating or liquor licenses. Individuals who allow children into these shows may face jail time and fines.
- Florida Republican Governor Ron DeSantis and GOP Representative Randy Fine support using the law to block drag shows for children.
- Other states with similar laws include Arkansas, North Dakota, Texas, Montana, and Tennessee.
- Montana and Tennessee have laws that more directly address drag performances, though Montana’s law is currently blocked by court injunctions.
- The legal debates often revolve around First Amendment rights, which protect freedom of speech and expression.
- A Florida restaurant known for drag shows sued the state, arguing the law was too vague and broad but lost initial court rulings.
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