Tennessee bans drag show performances in the presence of minors
Tennessee governor Bill Lee has signed the first-of-its-kind bill that bans some drag performances in the state.
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The law, which comes into force next month, bans drag performances in public places or any location where minors can view them.
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The measure covers “topless dancers, go-go dancers, exotic dancers, strippers, male or female impersonators, or similar entertainers”.
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The law states that first-time offenders will be slapped with misdemeanors, while subsequent offenses will be seen as felonies and could invite prison sentences of up to six years.
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Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson, one of the sponsors of the bill, celebrated the legislation
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“The bill gives confidence to parents that they can take their kids to a public or private show and will not be blindsided by a sexualised performance,”
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While Lee prepared to bring in the legislation, a purported photo of him from apparently a 1977 school yearbook showing him dressed as a woman started doing the rounds.
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However, there are others who think the law won't have any major effect on drag shows as they are legal under Tennessee's existing laws on obscenity