Appeals Court Allows Texas to Enforce Law Restricting Drag Shows
An appeals court has given Texas the green light to enforce S.B. 12, a state law regulating certain “sexually oriented” performances, including those involving sexual prosthetics. The court overturned a previous ruling that had blocked the law’s enforcement.
Details of the Law
S.B. 12 permits local authorities to regulate performances deemed sexually explicit if necessary to protect public health, safety, or welfare. The legislation also prohibits minors from being present at such events.
Attorney General’s Statement
“I will always work to shield our children from exposure to erotic and inappropriate sexually oriented performances,” said Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton. “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.”
Paxton described the appellate court’s ruling as a “victory” for protecting children from what he called “erotic” drag shows.
Opposition and Legal Challenge
Several drag performers and LGBTQIA+ advocacy organizations filed suit against Paxton, arguing the measure is overly broad and infringes on free expression guaranteed under the First Amendment. The plaintiffs said the law unjustly targets drag performances as an undesired form of expression.
Author’s Summary
The court’s decision revives a contentious Texas law restricting drag-related shows, reigniting debate over artistic freedom, child protection, and constitutional rights.