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 enforce a law that limits certain performances, including those involving sexual prosthetics.

Details of the Law and Court Ruling

The court overturned a lower court's decision against Senate Bill 12 (S.B. 12), which authorizes local governments to regulate “sexually oriented” performances to protect public health, safety, or welfare. The law also prohibits children from being near such performances.

Official Statements

“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 ruling as a “victory” for protecting children from “erotic” drag shows.

Opposition to the Law

Several drag and LGBTQIA+ organizations sued Paxton, arguing the law was excessively broad, vague, and violated First Amendment rights. They claimed it unconstitutionally targeted drag performances as a disfavored type of expression.

“[It] unconstitutionally singles out drag performances as a disfavored form of expression,” the groups stated in their complaint.

Summary

This ruling marks a significant legal step for Texas in regulating sexually oriented performances, sparking ongoing debate about free expression and child protection.

Author's Conclusion

The court’s decision reflects the tension between public safety concerns and First Amendment rights in regulating controversial performances.

KMPH Fox 26 — 2025-11-07