Crimes and punishments; adult cabaret and drag performance; making certain acts unlawful; codification; emergency.
Impact
If enacted, HB2186 will make it unlawful for individuals to engage in or organize adult cabaret performances that could be viewed by minors, imposing severe penalties for violations. Anyone found guilty of contravening the law may face felony charges with possible imprisonment of up to two years, and hefty fines ranging from $500 to $20,000. This bill preempts any local ordinances that conflict with its provisions, effectively centralizing control over such performances at the state level and nullifying prior regulations set by local governments.
Summary
HB2186, a bill introduced in the Oklahoma Legislature, addresses crimes and punishments related to adult cabaret performances and drag shows that are considered harmful to minors. The bill defines terms such as 'adult cabaret performance' and 'drag performer', establishing specific legal boundaries around performances that feature adult themes and entertainers in public settings where minors could be present. The aim is to prevent minors from being exposed to content deemed inappropriate, thereby emphasizing public safety and welfare.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB2186 is sharply divided. Proponents argue that the bill is necessary to protect children from exposure to adult content and to uphold community standards. This perspective is particularly supported by conservative elements within the legislature and certain advocacy groups. Conversely, opponents contest that the bill infringes on artistic expression and disproportionately targets specific communities, particularly the LGBTQ+ community involved in drag performances. Critics raise concerns about the implications for local governance and the chilling effect such laws could have on public events.
Contention
Notable points of contention in the discussions around HB2186 include debates over free speech and the potential for the bill to be used to target specific types of performance art. Opponents argue that the definitions used in the bill may be overly broad, leading to unintended consequences for family-friendly events and arts programming. Furthermore, the emergency clause contained within the bill suggests a rush to enact these measures, raising questions about the adequacy of public discourse before such laws are put into effect.