Florida Upholds Drag Show Ban for Minors | Orlando News

A federal appeals court has upheld Florida’s controversial “Protection of Children Act,” which bans minors from attending drag shows, calling it a legitimate effort to shield kids from obscene content. Backed by Governor Ron DeSantis and enacted in 2023, the law threatens fines, license revocation, or even jail time for venues allowing underage attendance—even with parental consent. While the majority argues it aligns with Florida’s child protection interests, dissenting judges slammed the ruling as dangerously vague and a threat to free speech, warning it could lead to self-censorship. The case, originally blocked by a lower court and later reviewed by the Supreme Court—which declined to intervene—now stands firm after all 11 appellate judges weighed in. The law remains in effect, but the legal battle over its constitutionality—and its chilling effect on expression—is far from over. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/575cff1b8e69af3b