House Bill Supports Efforts To Ban Drag Shows For Minors
Image Credit: capitol.tn.gov
The Tennessee Conservative [By Adelia Kirchner] –
Rep. Clay Doggett (R-Pulaski-District 70) is sponsoring HB0030, which would effectively ban children from attending drag shows in the state of Tennessee.
From drag queen story hours to “family friendly” drag shows and parades taking place across the United States, the sexualization of children has been quickly spreading throughout our culture.
Rep. Doggett, a father to four children himself, has proposed a bill that would require adult entertainers to secure a valid permit before participating in any compensated form of adult entertainment.
These permits would be monitored by and secured through the “adult-oriented establishment board” in jurisdictions that have one.
The summary for HB0030 also states that the legislation “prohibits public, private, and commercial establishments from allowing persons under the age of 18 to attend a performance featuring adult cabaret entertainment.”
While this legislation would provide a sense of relief to many Tennessee parents, some may view the sentiment to be common sense. Regardless, this seemingly basic approach is often necessary where such a massive cultural phenomenon is concerned.
This bill seeks to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 7, Chapter 51, relative to “adult cabaret entertainment” which in this context, is defined as “entertainment suitable for mature audiences, including entertainment erotic in nature, and featuring go-go dancers, exotic dancers, topless dancers, male or female impersonators, or similar entertainers.”
This legislation would take effect immediately upon becoming law.
A separate piece of legislation, previously covered by The Tennessee Conservative in December 2022, similarly aims to ban drag shows for children within the state of Tennessee.
Senate Bill 0003 goes hand in hand with HB0030 and uses similar language stating that, “It is an offense for a person to engage in an adult cabaret performance: (A) On public property; or (B) In a location where the adult cabaret performance could be viewed by a person who is not an adult.”
This bill also goes a step further, instating consequences to hold offenders accountable and outlining the possibility of fines and misdemeanors for initial offenses and a Class E felony upon any repeat offenses.
SB0003, was filed by Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson (R-Franklin-District 27) and is sponsored in the House of Representatives by Rep. Chris Todd (R-Madison County-District 73).
All things considered, the current pursuits of Rep. Doggett, Rep. Todd, and Sen. Johnson are an encouraging effort to provide Tennessee parents with a safe, family friendly environment that allows them to comfortably raise their children.
As of January 11th, 2023, both bills are awaiting committee assignments in their respective wings of the legislature.
About the Author: Adelia Kirchner is a Tennessee resident and reporter for the Tennessee Conservative. Currently the host of Subtle Rampage Podcast, she has also worked for the South Dakota State Legislature and interned for Senator Bill Hagerty’s Office in Nashville, Tennessee.
Great News! Thank you, Rep Doggett!
This needs to be put the bill also. Any parent bringing a child under the age of 18 to any type of These shows. Shall have their child or children removed from the home pending a complete and successful mental evaluation. Paid for at their own expense not taxpayer and their child or children can be safely returned home. Since this is such a serious matter make it a Class E felony the first time it happens. I think that would be a better deterrent. Quit giving these people a slap on the wrist and say don’t do this again. Thats what is wrong with our society no accountability and taking God out of everything we do.
In God we trust not government or man.
Have a blessed day.