Alabama Senate Committee Advances Bill to Ban Drag Performances in Libraries
Montgomery, AL – The Alabama Senate Committee on County and Municipal Government approved a controversial bill on Tuesday that seeks to ban drag performances in public libraries, setting the stage for a full Senate vote. Sponsored by Rep. Scott Stadthagen, R-Hartselle, HB 67 defines drag performances as those in which performers display a gender identity different from their sex assigned at birth.
Originally aimed at schools, the legislation was amended to focus solely on public libraries. The committee’s public hearing featured vocal opposition from advocates, including Zephyr Scalzetti, a transgender man, who highlighted the bill’s vague language and its potential to discriminate against transgender individuals. Scalzetti argued that the definition of drag could unfairly categorize trans people seeking access to library services.
Critics like Chris Hathcock emphasized the importance of clarity in laws to prevent misuse, stating, “Laws can’t be vague because people have to be able to understand what they mean.” Opponents voiced concerns that the bill is designed to target the transgender community, questioning who determines acceptable attire for different gender identities.
Only one supporter of the bill spoke at the hearing, Ted Holly, who shared his personal story of gender reassignment surgery. He warned that drag shows could "groom" children for transgender identities, which he called "dangerous."
Sen. Linda Coleman-Madison, D-Birmingham, questioned the bill’s effectiveness, remarking that moral education begins at home rather than through legislation. She noted the absence of an appeals process for individuals penalized under the proposed law.
Sen. Kirk Hatcher, D-Montgomery, condemned the bill as "disgraceful" and a distraction from more pressing issues, arguing that it unfairly targets a marginalized community.
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