Judge Hittner Voids Texas Drag Ban, Blocking $10,000 Fines

3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Aug 26

A federal judge in Texas again barred enforcement of Senate Bill 12, ruling the state cannot punish venues or performers under the drag-show law.
Hittner said the measure violated the First Amendment because its definitions were so broad that common performances such as cheerleading, dancing and live theater could face penalties.
The law had allowed fines of up to $10,000 for businesses hosting drag events, while performers could have been charged with a Class A misdemeanor.
Hittner also rejected Attorney General Ken Paxton’s request for a new trial, after the 5th Circuit had sent the case back following his 2023 ruling striking down the same law.
The decision lands weeks after a federal appeals court upheld a Florida restriction on children attending sexually explicit performances, highlighting a split in how courts are treating drag-related laws.