Relating to minors present at drag shows, and providing penalties

The inclusion of this explanation does not constitute agreement with the explanation’s substance by the members of the general assembly. This bill relates to minors present at drag shows. The bill provides that no minor shall be present at or view a drag show, defined in the bill, at a place of business. A person over years of age who knowingly brings a minor to a drag show at a place of business shall be guilty of a simple misdemeanor, punishable by confinement for no more than days and a fine of at least $105 but not more than $855. A place of business that allows a minor to be present at or view a drag show hosted by the place of business shall be fined $10,000 per minor for each violation of the bill. An owner, manager, or person who exercises direct control over a place of business who knowingly allows a minor to be present at or view a drag show hosted by the place of business shall be guilty of a serious misdemeanor, punishable by confinement for no more than one year and a fine of at least $430 but not more than $2,560. The bill provides that no state agency or public entity that receives state funds shall use such funds to host a drag show. A state agency or public entity committing a violation shall be fined $10,000 per minor for each violation. The bill provides that a parent or legal guardian of a minor may institute a civil action for damages in the amount of not less than $10,000 and up to $50,000 for each violation of the bill, and shall be awarded court costs and reasonable attorney fees if the parent or legal guardian is the prevailing party. For purposes of Code chapter 728 (obscenity), “place of business” is defined as the premises of a business required to obtain a sales or use tax permit pursuant to Code chapter 423, the premises of a nonprofit or not-for-profit organization, and the premises of an establishment which is open to the public at large or where entrance is limited by a cover charge or membership requirement; and “minor” is defined as any person under the age of 18.