BREI :
FRIENDS. FIND YOUR SENATORS ONLINE ANS SUBMIT AN EMAIL ON THEIR CONTACT PAGE. if your senator is a Republican, their views may be a bit more attracted to the bill so use this:
Dear Senator [their last name],
I am one of your constituents writing to express concern regarding HB 249: the Indecent Exposure Modernization Act, passed by the Ohio House. I have read the bill's full text and respectfully ask that you address and consider the following before casting a vote.
First, the bill's definition of "adult cabaret performance" extends far beyond its stated intent. It covers anyone who exhibits "a gender identity different from the performer's biological sex using clothing, makeup, or other physical markers" in a location where minors may be present. (HB 249, Sec. 2907.39(A)(4)(a)(v)). By that plain language, this bill would criminalize:
• Cross-cast roles in school and community theater
• Halloween costumes at public events
• Charity fundraisers involving costume dress
I would ask: does the Senator support applying criminal penalties to these scenarios? If not, what specific language in the bill excludes them?
Second, Ohio law already prohibits obscene performances harmful to minors regardless of venue. (ORC 2907.39(B), enacted 2006). This bill's only substantive addition is targeting gender expression specifically.
Third, a Trump-appointed federal district court judge struck down a nearly identical Tennessee law as "unconstitutionally vague and substantially overbroad," finding it targeted gender identity rather than legally defined obscenity. (Friends of George's, Inc. v. Mulroy, 675 F. Supp. 3d 831, W.D. Tenn. 2023). While the 6th circuit later reversed on standing, not on the constitutional merits, the underlying question remains unresolved. Ohio taxpayers would bear the cost of defending legislation with the same constitutional vulnerabilities.
I am asking you to answer, on the record, what this bill accomplishes that Ohio's existing obscenity statutes do not.
Looking forward to your response.
Thank you,
[your name]
2026-03-27 05:53:17