Story perspectives

Judge Strikes Down Texas Senate Bill 12, Paxton Appeals

8/26/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. District Judge David Hittner struck down Texas Senate Bill 12, blocking its enforcement.
The law would fine business owners up to $10,000 and make performers liable for a Class A misdemeanor.
Judge Hittner said the statute is overly broad and denied Attorney General Ken Paxton’s request for a new trial.
Attorney General Ken Paxton called the ruling flawed, said it endangers children, and announced an immediate appeal.

History

Historical Context

In 1997, the U.S. Supreme Court issued Reno v. ACLU, a 5-4 ruling that invalidated broad internet censorship statutes. The Court, led by Justice Stevens, emphasized that vague restrictions threaten protected speech, citing the American Civil Liberties Union’s successful challenge. Similarly, U.S. District Judge David Hittner dismissed Texas Senate Bill 12, deeming its $10,000 fines and misdemeanor provisions overly broad, echoing Reno’s reasoning. The decision signals that state attempts to regulate adult entertainment will face heightened judicial scrutiny, prompting Attorney General Ken Paxton’s appeal and reinforcing nationwide free-speech safeguards.

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Story summary

U.S. District Judge David Hittner struck down Texas Senate Bill 12, blocking its enforcement.
The law would fine business owners up to $10,000 and make performers liable for a Class A misdemeanor.
Judge Hittner said the statute is overly broad and denied Attorney General Ken Paxton’s request for a new trial.
Attorney General Ken Paxton called the ruling flawed, said it endangers children, and announced an immediate appeal.

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