TBA Law Blog


Posted by: Kate Prince on Feb 9, 2023

Legislation to clarify portions of the state's obscenity law regarding public drag performances cleared the Tennessee Senate today, the Tennessean reports. The bill, SB03, classifies "male and female impersonators" as adult cabaret performers and bans "adult-oriented performances that are harmful to minors," as defined in Tennessee's obscenity law. The measure was opposed by all Senate Democrats but was ultimately passed on a 26-6 vote. The bill’s sponsor, Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson, R-Franklin, acknowledged that what might be considered “harmful” would be subject to discretion from prosecutors.