Pennsylvania lawmakers are taking a bold stand against the sexualization of children with newly proposed legislation that would make bringing minors to drag shows a felony offense. Republican state Rep. Robert Leadbeter is leading the charge to protect kids from what he describes as “lewd, sexually profane environments.”
At a Glance
- Pennsylvania bill would make it a third-degree felony to allow minors to attend drag shows
- Rep. Robert Leadbeter cites studies linking exposure to such content with depression and anxiety in children
- Current PA law already considers corrupting the morals of minors an offense
- The legislation strengthens protections by specifically addressing sexually charged performances
- The bill follows a trend of similar legislation nationwide aimed at protecting children from adult entertainment
Protecting Pennsylvania’s Children
Republican state Representative Robert Leadbeter is taking a strong stance on child protection by introducing legislation that would make it a third-degree felony to allow minors to attend drag shows. The proposed bill aims to shield children from exposure to adult content that could have lasting negative effects on their psychological and emotional development, according to the lawmaker.
“Children should not be subjected to lewd, sexually profane environments,” Rep. Robert Leadbeter said.
The legislation builds upon existing Pennsylvania law, which already considers it an offense for someone to commit acts that corrupt the morals of minors. Leadbeter’s bill would strengthen these protections by explicitly prohibiting children from attending performances that feature sexually explicit content, targeting venues and guardians who allow minors to participate in or witness such events.
A Representative announced plans to introduce a bill that would allow law enforcement to charge someone with a third-degree felony if they take a minor to a drag show.https://t.co/l7Tabp18Fh
— abc27 News (@abc27News) February 27, 2025
Leadbeter’s push for stronger protections isn’t without scientific backing. The representative cites numerous studies that link children’s exposure to sexually charged content with increased risks of depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. These findings underscore the potential harm that drag shows, which often contain adult themes and sexual innuendo, could inflict on developing minds.
“Under current law, it is an offense for an individual to commit any act that tends to corrupt the morals of a minor,” Republican state Rep. Robert Leadbeter said.
The proposed legislation comes at a time when many conservative states are enacting similar measures to protect children from adult entertainment. These efforts have gained momentum as awareness grows about drag performers appearing in schools, libraries, and other venues frequented by children. Supporters argue that these performances, originally intended for adult audiences, have no place in children’s environments.
Because…they don’t.
A Leader in Child Protection
Recently appointed as the Republican Chairman of the Subcommittee on Courts for the 2025-26 Legislative Session, Leadbeter is positioned to make a significant impact on Pennsylvania law. This subcommittee oversees the state’s judiciary, investigates judicial misconduct, and plays a crucial role in shaping laws governing the judicial branch, giving Leadbeter a platform to advance his child protection agenda.
“I’m humbled to be named to this esteemed checks-and-balances position to ensure our laws are being followed,” Rep. Robert Leadbeter said.
Leadbeter’s legislation aligns with traditional family values and parental rights, offering a counterbalance to what many conservatives see as the Biden administration’s promotion of drag performances involving children. Under Biden’s presidency, the White House hosted drag queen activists, and federal funding supported drag performances targeted at LGBTQ+ youth through the Kennedy Center. The Trump administration has since moved to overhaul these programs, redirecting federal resources away from such initiatives.
