Federal Court Rejects Texas Drag Ban Again, Citing First Amendment

A federal judge struck down Texas's SB 12 for the second time on August 25, 2026, ruling the drag performance ban violates First Amendment free speech protections. Judge David Hittner warned the law's broad wording could criminalize mainstream concerts by Lady Gaga and Miley Cyrus, plus cheerleading and live theater. Texas AG Ken Paxton will appeal, sending the case to the 5th Circuit.