Toledo, Ohio — A proposed bill in the Ohio House of Representatives aims to significantly revise the state’s indecent exposure laws, but some drag performers are raising alarms that it may unfairly target their artistic expression. House Bill 249, sponsored by Representative Josh Williams, seeks to clarify and update the legal definitions concerning indecent exposure.
The legislation would alter the terminology used in existing laws, shifting the focus from “private parts” to “private areas” of the body in cases of indecent exposure. Williams contends that this change is necessary to address legal loopholes that have allowed inappropriate behavior in public spaces. For example, he cited a case in which an individual attempted to expose himself to minors but escaped prosecution due to the legal definitions in place.
However, the bill’s broader implications are causing concern among drag performers, such as Sugar Vermonte. They argue that the changes could restrict where and how they perform. The proposal expands the definition of adult cabaret performers to include those exhibiting a gender identity distinct from their biological sex — effectively encompassing drag queens.
Vermonte expressed her frustration, stating that the bill could confine drag performances to designated adult venues, such as bars and nightclubs, which she deems unreasonable. She emphasized that many charitable events she participates in, including fundraising performances for organizations like the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, occur outside of traditional adult cabaret environments.
Williams disputes claims that the bill constitutes a ban on drag performances. He explained that the legislation was carefully crafted to ensure that adult entertainers can still perform in private residences, as long as children are not present. “We created a carve-out that allows adult entertainment in residential settings or businesses marked as adult cabarets,” he elaborated.
Critics maintain that even with these carve-outs, the legislation limits opportunities for performers who often engage with diverse audiences and community events. Vermonte stressed that her shows aim to support and uplift causes rather than serve as adult entertainment.
While similar bills have failed in other states, Williams is optimistic about the prospects for HB 249. He argues that it strengthens existing protections against obscenity in the presence of minors and does not label drag performers as inherently obscene. “All adult performers should ensure that children are not present if their conduct rises to an obscene level,” he stated.
If passed, the bill would establish penalties for violations. Performing in front of anyone under the age of 18 while engaging in adult oriented acts could be classified as a misdemeanor. Additionally, performing obscenely in front of minors would elevate the offense to a fifth-degree felony, with harsher penalties if children under 13 are involved.
Currently, the bill awaits action in the Ohio House. In order to become law, it must secure approval from both the House and Senate before being signed by the governor.
This article was automatically generated by OpenAI, and while it aims to provide accurate information, the people, facts, circumstances, and story may not be entirely accurate. Any requests for removal, retraction, or correction can be made by emailing contact@publiclawlibrary.org.