Texas’ limits on certain drag shows ruled unconstitutional again
Summary
A federal judge has again ruled that a Texas law restricting some public drag shows is unconstitutional because it violates free speech rights. The law, called Senate Bill 12, has been paused and cannot be enforced after the judge found it too broad and targeting expression based on content.Key Facts
- Texas passed Senate Bill 12 in 2023 to limit certain public drag shows.
- U.S. District Judge David Hittner ruled the law unconstitutional in September 2023 due to First Amendment concerns.
- The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals briefly allowed the law in November 2023 but sent the case back to Judge Hittner with instructions.
- Judge Hittner reaffirmed his ruling on the law, saying it is too broad and could punish acts like cosplay, athletes, or impersonators.
- The law was described as targeting performances based on their content and viewpoint, which violates free speech protections.
- The lawsuit was initially filed against Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and others by LGBTQ+ advocacy and entertainment groups, including drag queen Brigitte Bandit.
- Some plaintiffs were removed after the appeals court decision, leaving Paxton as the sole defendant.
- Paxton said he plans to appeal the latest ruling to continue protecting children under Texas law.
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