HB 249 creates a new criminal offense of "unlawful adult cabaret performance." The bill's definition of "adult cabaret performance" includes performers who exhibit a gender identity different from their "biological sex" using clothing, makeup, prosthetics, or other physical markers. Penalties escalate from misdemeanors to felonies depending on minors' presence and whether the performance is deemed "obscene."
While supporters frame HB 249 as child protection and obscenity policy, the definitional hook — gender identity differing from biological sex — makes LGBTQIA+ presence itself a potential target in public spaces where minors are present. Civil liberties organizations have emphasized the bill's vagueness and First Amendment risks, noting its breadth may reach beyond staged drag performance to gender nonconformity in public.
The following representatives voted Yea on HB 249. Contact them to share your perspective.