AUSTIN, TX – A federal appeals court has sided with Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, allowing the state to enforce a law that bans sexually explicit performances, including some drag shows, from being shown in front of minors.
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit overturned a lower court’s decision that had blocked the law from taking effect. The judges said they had “genuine doubt” that performers have a First Amendment right to show sexual content to children.
Paxton said he was pleased with the decision and vowed to keep defending the law in court, saying it helps protect families and children across the state.
The law, passed by the Texas Legislature in 2023, restricts sexually oriented performances in public places and anywhere minors are present. It was challenged by a drag performer and others in the industry, who argued it violated free speech rights.
