Feb. 26, 2025
HARRISBURG – State Rep. Robert Leadbeter (R-Columbia) announced he is introducing legislation that would make it a third-degree felony for any individual who allows a minor to attend a drag show.
Leadbeter released the following statement:
“Children should not be subjected to lewd, sexually profane environments.
“Under current Pennsylvania law, individuals can already be charged for acts that ‘tend to corrupt the morals of a minor.’ Pennsylvania courts have interpreted this to mean conduct that offends the common sense, decency and morality of the broader community. My legislation strengthens this existing framework by explicitly prohibiting minors from being exposed to sexually charged performances under the guise of entertainment.
“Many drag shows feature overtly sexual themes, inappropriate outfits, and explicit language, none of which belong in front of children. This kind of exposure accelerates the premature sexualization of minors, something that has been linked to serious psychological and emotional harm. Studies from institutions such as the National Institutes of Health have shown that children subjected to this type of content are at greater risk for depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and a permissive attitude toward casual sex. We cannot allow these harmful influences to infiltrate our communities and disrupt the well-being of our youth.
“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. For too long, radical activists have pushed agendas that erode public decency and strip away the moral and cultural foundations that make our state strong. 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.
“I will not stand by while our children are exposed to inappropriate and harmful content. We have a duty to safeguard their innocence and ensure that the laws of our Commonwealth reflect the values we hold dear. I am honored to lead this fight, and I invite all Pennsylvanians who believe in faith, family, and freedom to stand with me in protecting our children from this madness.”
Representative Robert Leadbeter
109th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives