LGBTQ+ advocates argue a new Arkansas bill on drag shows could unconstitutionally affect transgender individuals in their own homes …
Category
🗞
NewsTranscript
00:00Some Arkansas Republicans want drag shows to be classified as adult-oriented businesses,
00:05the same designation given to strip clubs and adult theaters in the state.
00:08If passed, the bill would not allow drag shows to take place on public property
00:12or within 1,000 feet of churches, schools, parks, and libraries.
00:16The bill's creator said the legislation would protect children
00:19and wondered if God would approve of drag queens.
00:22The new measure, which was approved earlier this week in the Arkansas Senate,
00:25is now headed to the state house for consideration.
00:28According to the bill, drag shows are defined as someone singing, lip-syncing,
00:31dancing, or performing before an audience of at least two people
00:35while exhibiting a gender identity different from their gender at birth.
00:38Critics of the new measure say the proposed legislation is so broadly worded that it
00:42could apply to transgender individuals both in public as well as their own private homes.
00:47A Democratic lawmaker said the proposed bill is unconstitutional and unfairly
00:51targets the LGBTQ plus community given that restaurants like Hooters and Twin
00:55Peaks are not classified as adult businesses.