SCOTUS tosses challenge to TN law banning drag shows with kids present
Tennessee’s ban on drag shows when children are present will continue to be enforced, as the Supreme Court declined to hear a challenge to the law brought forth by a drag performance group. The state’s Republican attorney general, Jonathan Skrmetti, praised the decision as “another big win for Tennessee.”
The Adult Entertainment Act, passed in 2023, prohibits “adult-oriented performances” in public spaces or anywhere minors may be present. Skrmetti emphasized the importance of protecting children from sexually explicit content, stating that the First Amendment does not require Tennessee to allow such performances in front of minors.
A federal judge initially ruled the law targeting drag shows as “unconstitutionally vague and substantially overbroad,” leading to a temporary halt in enforcement. However, the 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals later overturned this decision, citing that the theater company challenging the law, Friends of George’s Inc., lacked standing.
The ACLU also filed a lawsuit against the ban on behalf of Blount County Pride, another LGBTQ+ advocacy group. Violators of the Adult Entertainment Act could face prosecution for a Class A misdemeanor, with subsequent offenses classified as a Class E felony, potentially resulting in fines and jail time.
State Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson, a sponsor of the 2023 bill, commended the Supreme Court’s decision to uphold the law, emphasizing the protection of Tennessee’s children from explicit entertainment. Meanwhile, another case before the Supreme Court challenges a Tennessee law prohibiting transgender medical treatments for minors, with a ruling expected by June.
In an interview with Fox News Digital, Skrmetti expressed optimism regarding the outcome of these cases, highlighting the cultural shift on related issues. He emphasized the importance of upholding laws without resorting to creative interpretations, which he believes could alienate the public.
The Supreme Court’s decisions on these cases will have significant implications for LGBTQ+ rights and free speech in Tennessee. As the legal battles continue, the state’s stance on drag shows and transgender medical treatments remains a contentious issue.
