North Central PA Times

State Representative Robert Leadbeter, a Republican from Columbia, is set to introduce a new bill in Pennsylvania, aiming to impose a third-degree felony on individuals who allow minors to attend drag shows. Leadbeter expressed his perspective through a statement.

"Children should not be subjected to lewd, sexually profane environments," he declared.

Leadbeter believes current Pennsylvania laws, which target acts corrupting the morals of minors, are insufficient. "My legislation strengthens this existing framework by explicitly prohibiting minors from being exposed to sexually charged performances under the guise of entertainment," he stated.

The legislation is framed to address explicit sexual content in drag shows, which, according to Leadbeter, feature inappropriate elements harmful to minors. He claims that exposure to such environments could lead to increased risks of psychological and emotional harm, citing research from the National Institutes of Health regarding the effects on children, such as depression and anxiety.

Leadbeter argues the bill is essential not only for shielding children but also for defending community values. "This legislation is about more than just protecting children from inappropriate content; it’s about upholding the fundamental values that have long defined our communities," he argued.

He sees this as a stand against what he views as attempts to undermine the moral structure of society. "We must push back against this perverse ideology and fight to ensure our laws reflect the standards of decency and protection families in Pennsylvania deserve," Leadbeter continued.

By introducing this legislation, Leadbeter aspires to rally support from residents of Pennsylvania who share his commitment to "faith, family, and freedom," urging them to stand with him. "I will not stand by while our children are exposed to inappropriate and harmful content," he concluded.