The Texas Senate on April 4 granted preliminary approval to two bills aimed at limiting children’s exposure to drag events or other sexual performances across the state.
Senate Bill 12 (pdf), introduced by state Sen. Bryan Hughes, a Republican, would restrict certain “sexually oriented performances” from taking place on public property, on the premises of a commercial enterprise, or in the presence of a child and would make those who violate the law liable to pay a $10,000 fine.
Performers who commit an offense under the law also face a jail sentence of up to a year.
Specifically, the bill states that individuals who control the premises of a commercial enterprise may not allow a sexually oriented performance to be presented in the presence of anyone under the age of 18….