Oklahoma’s Public Obscenity Bill Targeting Drag Performances Advances to Governor’s Desk
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Oklahoma’s Senate Bill 550, which seeks to criminalize drag performances deemed harmful to minors, has progressed through the legislative process and is now awaiting the governor’s signature. The bill, introduced by Senator Dusty Deevers, R-Elgin, aims to prohibit drag shows on public property or in venues where minors might be present. Violators could face up to five years in prison and fines up to $20,000, while event organizers could incur fines up to $1,000 and up to a year in jail. (oklahomavoice.com)
Critics argue that the bill’s language is vague and could inadvertently affect family-friendly events. For instance, Senator Michael Brooks, D-Oklahoma City, questioned whether a person dressed as Superman reading a comic book at a public library would be in violation. Deevers responded that if the individual was "just dressed up and going to read a clean book," it would not fall under the bill’s definition of harmful material. (oklahomavoice.com)
The bill has sparked significant debate. Nicole McAfee, executive director of Freedom Oklahoma, expressed disappointment over the bill’s advancement, emphasizing concerns about mandatory prison time for performers. She highlighted the potential for the law to be used against individuals who identify as transgender outside of drag performances. (oklahomavoice.com)
Public opinion in Oklahoma appears divided. A 2023 SoonerPoll survey indicated that 66.5% of likely voters oppose drag shows in public places where children under 12 might be present. However, nearly half of Democratic respondents strongly supported such performances. (soonerpoll.com)
As the bill awaits the governor’s decision, it underscores the ongoing national conversation about the regulation of drag performances and their place in public spaces.
Oklahoma’s Drag Performance Legislation Gains National Attention:
- An Oklahoma Bill Could Jail Drag Performers. Why the Right Is Targeting Drag Shows
- Tennessee Passed the Nation’s First Law Limiting Drag Shows. Here’s the Status of Anti-Drag Bills Across the U.S.
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