Appeals court allows Texas to enforce law seen as restrictive of drag shows

Appeals Court Allows Texas to Enforce Law Restricting Drag Shows

An appeals court on Thursday permitted Texas to implement a law that restricts, among other things, performers using sexual prosthetics. This decision overturned a lower court ruling that challenged the law, Senate Bill 12 (S.B. 12).

Summary of the Law

S.B. 12 authorizes local governments to regulate "sexually oriented" performances when necessary to "promote public health, safety, or welfare." The law also prohibits children from being near these performances.

Statements from Texas Officials

"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 decision as a "victory" for child protection.

Opposition to the Law

Several drag and LGBTQIA+ organizations sued Paxton over S.B. 12, arguing the law is "sweepingly overbroad and vague" and violates First Amendment rights.

"It unconstitutionally singles out drag performances as a disfavored form of expression," the groups wrote in their complaint.

Their challenge contends the law targets drag shows unfairly and restricts free speech protections.

Author's Summary

This ruling marks a significant moment in the ongoing legal battle over Texas' efforts to regulate drag performances under the guise of public safety and child protection.

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KMPH Fox 26 KMPH Fox 26 — 2025-11-07

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