Senate Democrats oppose bill targeting LGBTQ+ community

During debate on the Senate floor today, Senate Democrats spoke out against SB43, a bill to classify drag performances as adult-oriented businesses.

Senator Greg Leding (D-Fayetteville), Senator Clarke Tucker (D-Little Rock), Senator Linda Chesterfield (D-Little Rock), and Senator Stephanie Flowers (D-Pine Bluff) all spoke against the bill, highlighting the harm the bill will do to vulnerable Arkansans.

All six Senate Democrats voted against the measure. The bill passed on a party-line vote, with all 29 Republicans voting in favor.

The bill is now assigned to the House Committee on City, County, and Local Affairs, with a hearing expected the week of January 29.