Alabama lawmakers introduce anti-drag bill

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBMA) — House lawmakers introduced a bill Thursday to outlaw drag shows in Alabama, making it the latest state to foray into a growing political battle.

House Bill 401 would outlaw all drag shows in K-12 public schools, public libraries or any public space where minors are present. Three local lawmakers, Reps. Mack Butler, R-Etowah County, Rep. Jim Carns, R-Jefferson/Shelby County, and Rep. Arnold Mooney, R-Shelby County, were listed as co-sponsors of the bill.

The bill's introduction was quickly denounced by Central Alabama Pride, a non-profit advocacy group for LGBTQ rights.

"This bill is an outrageous attack on freedom of expression and the vibrant culture of the LGBTQ community in Alabama," the organization said in a news release. "Drag performances have long been a source of empowerment, resilience, and unity for our community, and banning them is an affront to our fundamental rights. Additionally, in its haste to assault the LGBTQ community, the Alabama legislature has drafted a bill so broad that it could criminalize a day at the beach. This crusade to legislate subjective notions of morality threatens the liberty of every Alabamian."

Republican lawmakers in a dozenstateshave either introduced or passed similar bills.

HB 401 will be sent to the State Government committee.