A bill to ban adult cabaret shows from public property or for those under 18 is on track to go to the governor. It could be signed as early as next week.
On Thursday, Gov. Bill Lee was asked if he would sign the legislation banning drag shows on public property. He said he’ll decide when it reaches his desk. Once it does, he’ll have 10 days to act.
Several protests have been held by people who identify as LGBTQ. One is DeeDee Renner, a trans woman and drag performer, who says the bill does more damage to a community already under attack.
“I would like to say that it was harder decades ago when I started transitioning, but unfortunately, it has not gotten any easier because of the discrimination and disdain and the high rate of transgendered murders throughout the country,” Renner said. “This bill targeting drag entertainers will only add to the discrimination and hatred that I have had to face my whole adult life.”
Sponsors of the bill say it’s only meant to target performances that are overtly sexual and take place in front of minors. Opponents believe it could have a chilling effect on drag queens who would live in constant fear of violating the law.
If signed, it’ll take effect April 1, ahead of Pride Month in June.
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