Florida has scored a significant victory in its effort to protect children from exposure to sexually explicit content, as the state can now enforce its 2023 law aimed at preventing minors from attending sexually explicit drag shows.
On Monday, the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals lifted a lower court injunction that had blocked enforcement of the law for nearly two years, allowing Florida to move forward while the broader legal battle continues. The ruling applies statewide, with the lone exception of Hamburger Mary’s, the venue that initially challenged the law.
The appeals court’s decision follows a June U.S. Supreme Court ruling that limited the use of universal injunctions — court orders that block laws for everyone, even those not involved in the lawsuit. As a result, Florida officials regained the authority to enforce a law passed by the Legislature and signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis to uphold basic standards of decency where children are concerned.
Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier praised the ruling, emphasizing that the law was designed to keep minors away from adult-themed performances depicting nudity, sexual conduct, or lewd behavior. “For two years, our law preventing children from attending sexually explicit drag shows was held up in court,” he wrote on X. “Starting today, the law is in effect thanks to a win on appeal by our office. If you’re exposing children to lewd conduct, you’re on notice. We’re watching, Pensacola.”
For two years, our law preventing children from attending sexually explicit drag shows was held up in court. Starting today, the law is in effect thanks to a win on appeal by our office.
If you're exposing children to lewd conduct, you're on notice. We’re watching, Pensacola.
— Attorney General James Uthmeier (@AGJamesUthmeier) December 15, 2025
Conservatives argue that this is a common-sense safeguard, not an attack on free speech. As Rep. Doug Bankson put it during legislative debate in 2023, the goal is simple: “Let kids be kids” and protect their innocence.
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The law reflects broader concerns among Florida lawmakers about the rapid normalization of sexualized content and radical gender ideology aimed at children. While critics claim the statute is vague, supporters counter that its definitions mirror long-standing standards used to regulate adult entertainment and protect minors from harm. The law also prevents local governments from issuing permits for inappropriate events and allows the state to discipline venues that violate the rules.
The ruling may have immediate implications for events such as “A Drag Queen Christmas” scheduled at a city-owned theater in Pensacola. Uthmeier has warned that government entities hosting performances that mock Christianity or promote obscene material could face legal consequences, noting that the First Amendment does not require public institutions to endorse offensive content.
Ultimately, conservatives view this development as a reaffirmation of parental rights, public morality, and the state’s duty to shield children — the most vulnerable members of society — from sexualized performances masquerading as family entertainment.
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