A federal judge strikes down a Texas law restricting drag shows, ruling it violates the First Amendment. U.S. District Judge David Hittner blocks enforcement of Texas Senate Bill 12 after finding the statute unconstitutionally vague and overly broad in how it defines “sexually oriented performances.” The decision is issued in response to a lawsuit brought by performers and others challenging the law.
Across outlets, reporting agrees that the judge also rejects the state’s approach as potentially sweeping in mainstream entertainment. Multiple sources describe Hittner’s examples—including Dolly Parton, Elvis Presley, and Miley Cyrus—used to illustrate how the law could apply to performances containing elements that some might consider sexual. Some reports also note the law’s stated penalties, including fines for businesses and potential misdemeanor charges for performers.
Several outlets add context about the scope of potential enforcement, including examples such as cosplay and other performances that could be captured by the law’s broad language. NBC and others also report that the judge tells people who are offended by such events that the solution is to “just don’t go,” framing the issue as one of protected expression rather than a basis for restricting speech.
