Alabama Lawmaker Proposes Bill to Restrict Drag Performances for Minors
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – In a move that has sparked discussions across the state, Alabama House Majority Leader Rep. Scott Stadthagen, R-Hartselle, has pre-filed House Bill 67, aimed at limiting drag performances in public K-12 schools and libraries without parental consent for minors. The bill, co-sponsored by four Republican representatives, seeks to address concerns among conservative lawmakers regarding the potential exposure of children to drag events and related materials.
The proposed legislation defines a drag performance as any presentation where the performer expresses a gender identity different from their assigned sex at birth through clothing and makeup. The initiative comes on the heels of incidents like a drag queen storytime event held at a Mobile library, which provoked backlash from some community members. Rep. Chip Brown, a co-sponsor, characterized such performances as "grooming" and a form of over-sexualization that he believes undermines childhood innocence.
While state Superintendent Eric Mackey affirmed he has not received any complaints regarding drag performances in schools, he stated he would not support such activities if they arose.
The bill also includes provisions blocking minors from sharing living quarters, such as bathrooms or changing facilities, with members of the opposite sex without parental permission. This component draws inspiration from a recent controversy involving a transgender employee at Huntsville’s Space Camp, where a parent expressed concerns over staff interactions with minors.
As the state gears up for the legislative session set to begin on February 4, the implications of HB 67 are likely to be a focal point of debate, reflecting broader national conversations about parental rights and the involvement of LGBTQ+ themes within educational settings.
Alabama Daily News’ Mary Sell contributed to this report.
Source
Photo credit aldailynews.com