Expand provisions regarding the protection of minors from certain exhibitions.
Impact
If enacted, SB184 would significantly impact statutes concerning the exhibition and dissemination of materials that are deemed harmful to minors. Specifically, it would amend laws to clarify definitions and increase legal accountability for those who provide access to harmful material, potentially leading to heightened regulation of performances and media viewed by younger audiences. Supporters argue this bill is necessary to protect children from exposure to harmful content, while critics may view it as an infringement on artistic expression and personal freedoms.
Summary
Senate Bill 184 aims to expand protections for minors against certain exhibitions that may be deemed harmful. The bill modifies existing laws related to obscenity by specifically defining 'drag performance' and relating the appeal of such performances to 'prurient interests.' It outlines what constitutes material harmful to minors and provides a legal framework for prosecuting individuals who disseminate such material knowingly. This includes performances that appeal predominantly to the shameful or morbid interest of minors, which would be patently offensive according to community standards.
Contention
The expansion of the definitions associated with harmful material has stirred debate among various stakeholders. Critics may argue that the definitions provided in the bill are overly vague and could lead to arbitrary enforcement against artistic performances under the guise of protecting minors. Other points of contention include concerns that the bill may disproportionately affect communities involved in drag and other performance arts, as it targets their forms of expression specifically. Proponents defend the bill by emphasizing the need for clear avenues to protect minors from exploitation and inappropriate content.