Florida ban on minors attending drag shows blocked by judge.

Federal Judge Temporarily Halts Florida’s Ban on Children Attending Drag Shows

A federal judge in Florida has made a significant ruling, putting a temporary stop to the state’s enforcement of a ban on children attending drag shows. This decision comes after Hamburger Mary’s, a popular restaurant chain known for hosting drag shows, filed a lawsuit against Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. The lawsuit challenged a bill signed by DeSantis that restricted children from attending such events. Hamburger Mary’s, with a location in Orlando, Florida, shared the judge’s decision on their social media account.

Protecting First Amendment Rights

“We are thrilled that the judge recognizes this law for what it is—an infringement on our First Amendment rights,” stated the restaurant on social media. They encouraged people to read the court’s injunction in its entirety, urging them to understand the case and set aside any political biases or fear-mongering.

The court’s decision emphasizes that a drag performer reading a children’s book to a minor does not necessarily constitute an obscene performance, even though some may find it inappropriate. Furthermore, Florida’s existing obscenity laws already grant the necessary authority to protect children from any constitutionally unprotected obscene exhibitions or shows.

A Broad Interpretation

DeSantis, who is running for president in the 2024 election, signed the bill SB 1438 into law in May. Hamburger Mary’s lawsuit argued that although the law did not explicitly mention drag shows, its broad language allowed for the state to interpret it as including this art form. The lawsuit stated, “There is no lewd activity, sexually explicit shows, disorderly conduct, public exposure, obscene exhibition, or anything inappropriate for a child to see.”

In response to the judge’s decision, Hamburger Mary’s announced that they will be hosting a “family-friendly Broadway Brunch” on Sunday. They welcome guests under the age of 18 to attend the show as long as they are accompanied by their parents. Don’t miss out on the return of our FAMILY FRIENDLY Broadway Brunch this Sunday!

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