Tennessee House passes bill that would restrict drag shows
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WZTV) — A bill that would ban drag show performances on public property or in a place where the performance could be seen by a minor was passed by the Tennessee House on Thursday.
The proposed law, HB0009, passed the house with a 74-19 vote. It will return to the Senate next for a procedural vote.
The vote came with heated debate among House lawmakers in favor and opposition of the rule.
“Most of you in this room know exactly what this does. You know it’s common sense. This is protecting children, first and foremost,” says Rep. Chris Todd (R-Madison County).
“This is about erasing a group of people; this is about fearmongering” says Rep. Justin Jones (D-Nashville).
The proposed rule does not explicitly say drag shows, but is related to "adult cabaret performances." If the law passes, it would be a misdemeanor first-time offense and a felony second offense to hold a drag show in a public space or in a place where the show could be seen by a minor.
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