Tennessee lawmakers passed a bill to ban drag performances in public and in front of children.
On Thursday, The House passed a bill that will affect LGBTQ celebrations and transgender people if Governor Bill Lee signs the law into place. The law will restrict drag shows and make Tennessee the first US state to ban the lifestyle.
Currently, there are more than 20 bills from 15 states that are aimed at modern-day drag. The lifestyle has transformed from underground performance art to mainstream entertainment throughout the years.
Drag performers and civil rights groups have since criticized the regulation calling the law unconstitutional and redundant. According to NBC News, the regulation “would lead to further harassment and violence against gay and transgender people.”
“It gives confidence to parents that they can take their kids to a public or private show and will not be blindsided by a sexualized performance,” Jack Johnson, Tennessee Senate Majority Leader, said.
Earlier this month, Johnson passed a bill to criminalize “adult cabaret entertainment” in public spaces. The bill specified that the “entertainment” includes “adult-oriented” performances by strippers, go-go dancers or “male or female impersonators.”
If an individual broke the law, they could face a misdemeanor for the first offense. In addition, individuals could receive a felony charge if the crime is repeated.
Nevertheless, the lawmakers are also asking for the governor to restrict doctors from administering gender-affirming treatment including puberty blockers, hormone therapy and surgery, for transgender minors.
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