Bill > HB675

This bill creates a private right of action against drag performances, allowing minors or their parents/guardians to sue performers, promoters, or participants in drag shows that they consider sexually explicit. Specifically, individuals can file a lawsuit within three years of a performance, seeking actual damages (including psychological, emotional, economic, and physical harm), attorney fees, and statutory damages of $5,000. The bill provides detailed and explicit definitions of "drag king" and "drag queen" that emphasize sexual and provocative elements of performance, characterizing such shows as incorporating sexually suggestive movements, provocative costuming, and themes of eroticism. The legislation also amends existing law to expand these definitions and introduces the concept of "drag story hour" as an event involving sexual activities with children present. The bill allows legal action for performances that occur in various venues including libraries, schools, nightclubs, and other events, with a broad interpretation that could potentially restrict drag performances in multiple settings. The legislation includes a severability clause, meaning that if any part of the act is found invalid, the remaining parts can still be enforced.

Justice

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC2434