Story perspectives

Ohio House Passes HB 249, Restricts Drag, Angers Trans Performers

6/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

Ohio’s House approved HB 249, the Indecent Exposure Modernization Act, which could restrict drag shows and affect transgender Ohioans.
Nina West and Virginia West say the bill misrepresents drag as a diverse theatrical expression.
Black transgender drag artist Carmen Berry says she must armor herself daily because the legislation fuels harassment.
Virginia West says she will keep performing publicly even if arrested, using litigation to challenge the law.

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Story summary

Ohio’s House approved HB 249, the Indecent Exposure Modernization Act, which could restrict drag shows and affect transgender Ohioans.
Nina West and Virginia West say the bill misrepresents drag as a diverse theatrical expression.
Black transgender drag artist Carmen Berry says she must armor herself daily because the legislation fuels harassment.
Virginia West says she will keep performing publicly even if arrested, using litigation to challenge the law.