Alabama legislature introduces HB67 banning drag performances for minors without parental consent

In the heart of Alabama's legislative session, a new bill has emerged, stirring conversations across the state. House Bill 67, introduced on February 4, 2025, seeks to regulate the presence of drag performances in public K-12 schools and libraries, as well as establish guidelines for overnight programs involving minors.

The bill defines a "drag performance" as an exhibition where a performer presents a gender identity different from their sex assigned at birth, utilizing clothing, makeup, or other physical markers. Under this proposed legislation, public schools and libraries would be prohibited from knowingly hosting such performances in the presence of minors unless they have obtained explicit consent from a parent or legal guardian.

Moreover, the bill addresses the sensitive issue of shared facilities during overnight programs. It stipulates that minors cannot share multi-occupancy bathrooms, changing facilities, or sleeping quarters with members of the opposite sex unless they are family members, and only with parental approval. This provision aims to ensure the comfort and safety of minors in state-sponsored activities.

As the bill makes its way through the legislative process, it has sparked notable debates among lawmakers and community members. Proponents argue that the bill is essential for protecting children from exposure to performances they deem inappropriate, while opponents contend that it infringes on artistic expression and could marginalize LGBTQ+ communities.

The implications of House Bill 67 extend beyond its immediate provisions. Experts warn that such legislation could foster an environment of exclusion and discrimination, particularly against the LGBTQ+ youth. Critics also highlight the potential chilling effect on artistic expression within educational and public spaces, raising concerns about the broader cultural impact.

As the bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, its future remains uncertain. The ongoing discussions reflect a larger national conversation about gender identity, parental rights, and the role of public institutions in shaping cultural narratives. With Alabama at the forefront of this debate, the outcome of House Bill 67 could resonate far beyond state lines, influencing similar legislative efforts across the country.