GOP-backed measure banning drag shows on public property is headed to a final vote

Gov. Bill Lee could soon decide whether he wants to ban drag shows on public property.

The Tennessee House is scheduled to hear the bill on Thursday. If it passes, it’ll head to the governor for his signature.  

This bill has made headlines since being filed in November of last year. And it’ll soon be reaching the final steps that several LGBTQ advocates have been trying to prevent. The ban impacts male and female impersonators.

Hella Skeleton, a non-binary trans actor and drag performer, is worried about the unintentional implications. 

“I’ve sort of come to suspect that they intentionally chose those vague words,” Skeleton said. “Because, I believe that this bill will not only shut down a really vital part to our LGBTQ culture, but I think it could also give a green light to sort of target anybody that is perceived to be impersonating — even just walking around on the street, especially in communities that are already over policed.”

The measure will also prevent minors from viewing drag shows.