Rep. Synenberg Condemns HB 249 as Harmful, Divisive Attack on LGBTQ+ Ohioans

COLUMBUS — State Rep. Eric Synenberg (D-Beachwood) today condemns the passage of House Bill (HB) 249, the drag ban, that would create the offense of an “unlawful”  adult cabaret performance. HB 249 is a direct attack on LGBTQ+ Ohioans across the state and is a prime example of government overreach. 

“HB 249 is a direct attack on LGBTQ+ Ohioans across the state and is a prime example of government overreach,” said Rep. Synenberg. “The sponsors are threatened by the idea of free expression and are using the power of government to silence it. This bill only adds to Ohio’s reputation as an unfriendly state for LGBTQ+ Ohioans, their families, friends, and allies.” 

HB 249 does the following: 

• Defines adult cabaret performance to mean a performance in a location other than an adult cabaret where minors may be present, that is harmful to juveniles or obscene;
• Creates the following criminal offenses:
  • First degree misdemeanor if the performance is NOT obscene but occurs in the presence of a juvenile;
  • Fifth degree felony if the performance is obscene and occurs in the presence of a juvenile;
  • Fourth degree felony if the performance is obscene and occurs in the presence of a juvenile under the age of 13. 
     

“The language in this bill is vague and leaves far too much room for interpretation, placing the burden of deciding what is ‘obscene’ on law enforcement officers,” added Rep. Synenberg. “Ohio law already prohibits performances that are ‘obscene’ or ‘harmful to juveniles,’ and this bill provides no additional protections beyond the state’s longstanding statute. What it really does is target events like Drag Story Hours, Pride parades, and festival performances, legitimate forms of expression that are protected under the First Amendment. I am completely opposed to this bill. There could also be unintended consequences that could make it difficult for major music performers and touring acts to perform here in Ohio, potentially forcing events and economic activity out of the state and creating long-term economic harm. We should not be stifling free speech in this way, and decisions about what is appropriate for children should be left to parents, not dictated by vague government restrictions.” 

HB 249 now moves to the Senate for consideration.