After failing the last two years to pass a bill banning drag shows where minors are present, House Majority Leader Scott Stadthagen (R-Hartselle) said he plans to continue his efforts to protect Alabama's children by reintroducing the issue in 2025.
On Wednesday's episode of WVNN's "The Yaffee Program," Stadthagen said the House had a "very successful session" in 2024, but he was disappointed the "drag queen bill" didn't pass. He said not everyone grasped the seriousness of the situation.
"We had it in committee in the House, and I think the biggest problem is that, you know, that people don't understand there are kids involved with these different events," he said. "... I'm very disappointed that didn't cross the finish line. So next year, I'll definitely be pushing that again."
1819 News has reported on multiple drag shows where children were not only present but also participated by going on stage or handing money to adult performers.
"Whatever an adult does behind closed doors, we could care less," Stadthagen continued. "But when you start indoctrinating kids and putting them in that situation, that environment to expose them to that, that's when we have to draw the line and do something."
To connect with the story's author or comment, email daniel.taylor@1819news.com or find him on Twitter and Facebook.
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