Senate committee narrows HB 67 to public libraries; public hearing draws divided testimony and bill receives favorable report 5–3

The committee considered House Bill 67, a bill that—after an adopted amendment—would regulate “drag performance” in public libraries. The sponsor said she sought parental involvement and described the measure as protecting children from performances that “exhibit a sex identity different from the sex assigned at birth using clothing, makeup or other physical markers.”

The committee adopted an amendment that narrowed the bill’s scope to public libraries and explicitly excluded K–12 institutions. The amendment was moved and seconded on the floor and adopted by voice/roll call.

Public hearing: The committee heard multiple opponents and proponents during a timed public hearing. Zephyr Scalzetti, who identified themself as a constituent, said the bill’s definition is vague and could criminalize ordinary dress; Scalzetti asked where the line between ordinary clothing and “drag” would be drawn and warned that the bill contains no enforcement or appeals process other than civil suits by those who believe they were wrongly banned. “My life is not a performance,” Scalzetti said.

A speaker from Opelika (identified in the transcript as Chris) told the committee that courts have struck down similarly vague prohibitions and cited constitutional protections, including the First and Fourteenth Amendments; the speaker argued the bill’s vagueness and reliance on community-by-community determinations would face judicial scrutiny.

Other public speakers included Susan Stewart of Huntsville, who said the bill’s definition is so broad it could restrict historical or theatrical performances; Aaron DeJager (DeJager), who warned the bill contains two disparate subjects and raised a possible state-constitution single-subject problem; and Ted Halley, who testified in favor, saying drag shows are dangerous and urging passage.

Committee debate: Senators raised concerns about vagueness and unintended consequences for library events such as community theatre, Shakespeare performances, sorority or senior-center events, and safe Halloween programs hosted at libraries. Senator Coleman (full name used on first reference) gave examples — karaoke or a sorority staging a male character — and asked how parental consent would be documented when minors attend events accompanied by grandparents or other caregivers. Senator Hatcher called the bill a “cultural distraction” and urged the committee to focus on other policy priorities.

Vote: After debate, the committee voted to give HB 67 a favorable report by a roll call of 5 ayes to 3 noes.

Why it matters: Supporters said the measure advances parental involvement in what children may be exposed to at public events; opponents argued the bill’s definition is vague, risks unconstitutional application, and could force library boards and local governments into legal defenses. The adopted amendment substantially narrowed the bill’s covered venues to public libraries only.

Ending: The amended bill will proceed with a favorable committee report and be available for further action in the full legislative process.