Federal Court Clears Florida's Ban on Kids at Drag Shows, Overturning Earlier Block

Executive Briefing

• Ruled the Florida 'Protection of Children Act' constitutes a lawful regulation of obscenity, not a free speech violation.
• Vacated a lower court's statewide injunction that had previously blocked the law from taking effect.
• Determined performers could not establish the law was vague or an unconstitutional content-based restriction.
• Affirmed states hold a compelling interest in shielding minors from nudity, lewd conduct, and sexually explicit performances.
• Sends the case back to district court for further proceedings consistent with the 8-5 majority ruling.