In this episode, we dive right into HB567 better known as the Crown Act. This law  will make discrimination based on hair texture or hairstyle associated with race illegal. After two African American  high school students were forced to cut their dreadlocks to avoid consequences.

In this episode, we take a look at SB 12 out of the 88th Legislature banning sexually oriented performances in front of minors will become a criminal offense under SB 12. The law bans real or simulated groping, real or simulated arousal and display of a sex toy if done in a “prurient” manner in front of a minor or on public property.  Drag artists filed a lawsuit to block the law on Aug. 2 because they feared drag performances would be targeted by this legislation's vague wording. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) signed the bill on Aug. 18.  Specific wording about drag shows was removed from the bill before it passed, but businesses that host performances that fall under these restrictions can be fined $10,000. Performers can also be charged with a misdemeanor.

We also take a look at the judiciary reviews on this law that stem back as far as Labor day 2023  On Thursday, U.S. District Judge David Hittner in Houston issued the temporary restraining order blocking the law from taking effect Friday. Critics argued that the definition is so broad, it could include the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. During a two-day court hearing earlier this week, drag performers and advocates said the new law threatened their livelihoods and would censor their freedom of expression. In his order, Hittner agreed with those who filed the lawsuit that the new law is likely unconstitutional because it violates their First Amendment rights.

In this episode, we dive right into the most controversial law passed by Texas in the 88th Legislature.  SB 13 Banning Gender Affirming Care. Texas will ban gender-affirming care for minors, this includes medication and surgery. SB 14 bans transition-related care for transgender minors, but Texas families and medical providers tried to block the bill by filing a lawsuit. It was appealed to the Texas Supreme Court in late August. The law will also allow the state to revoke medical licenses of doctors who provide treatment like puberty blockers or hormone therapy to minors “to transition a child’s biological sex.”

We also dive into the judiciary decisions regarding this law that stemed as far fact as late 2023.  The Texas Supreme Court will allow the new state law banning gender-affirming care for minors to take effect on Friday, setting up Texas to be the most populous state with such restrictions on transgender children. Last week, a state district judge ruled the pending law violated the rights of transgender children and their families to seek appropriate medical care, and violated doctors’ ability to follow “well-established, evidence-based” medical guidelines under threat of losing their license. The judge issued a temporary injunction that was lifted by the all-Republican Texas Supreme Court, who took action without explaining their decision.