FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
February 27, 2025
Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson Applauds U.S. Supreme Court Decision Upholding Tennessee Law Protecting Children From Inappropriate Adult Entertainment
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Tennessee Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson (R-Franklin) praised a major legal victory for Tennessee families as the U.S. Supreme Court upheld Senate Bill 3, a 2023 law designed to protect children from exposure to sexually explicit entertainment. On Monday, the high court declined to hear Friends of George’s v. Mulroy, allowing the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit ruling to stand, affirming the law’s constitutionality.
Johnson, who sponsored Senate Bill 3 in 2023, led efforts to ensure minors are shielded from inappropriate performances.
“Tennessee continues to lead the nation in protecting children,” said Johnson. “This court decision makes it clear that sexually explicit performances belong in spaces for adults, not in front of kids. Just because an event is labeled ‘family-friendly’ doesn’t mean it’s appropriate for children or reflects Tennessee’s values. This law establishes a necessary legal standard, ensuring that what is truly family friendly is clearly defined. I commend Tennessee Attorney General Skrmetti and his team for their work. We will always stand firm in our commitment to protect children.”
The law prohibits sexually explicit performances from taking place in public spaces or anywhere minors may be present. It requires private establishments – such as bars or restaurants – hosting sexually explicit shows to verify the age of all patrons by requiring valid identification upon entry. The law reinforces Tennessee’s stance on parental rights and community standards while maintaining that adult entertainment should remain in age-appropriate venues.
Johnson has long been a leading advocate for laws that safeguard Tennessee children. This marks the second bill he has sponsored to be reviewed by the U.S. Supreme Court. Senate Bill 1, also from 2023, was argued before the court in December 2024 in United States v. Skrmetti, which will determine the constitutionality of Tennessee’s ban on gender transition procedures being performed on minors. A ruling in that case is expected by June 2025.
“Tennessee families can rest assured that our laws will continue to reflect the values of our communities,” Johnson said. “We will always stand up for the rights of parents and the protection of our children.”
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