Boy’s drag performance at Ohio bar prompts lawmaker’s action

COLUMBUS, Ohio – The drag queen performance of a 9-year-old boy at a bar outside Ohio’s capital city has prompted a state legislator to propose a law aimed at closing what he says is a “loophole in child exploitation laws.”

The Blade reports legislation proposed by Rep. Timothy Schaffer, a Lancaster Republican, would update child endangering laws to prevent performances by children that simulate sexual activity and appeal to “the prurient interest.”

Schaffer says Ohio can “do better” to protect children.

Jacob Measley’s mother, Jerri, disagrees. She says her son is not allowed to dance to songs with sexual language and that his moves were learned in dance and gymnastics classes.

The furor began after Jacob, of Perrysburg, performed in drag as “Miss Mae Hem” at a Lancaster bar outside Columbus in December.

___

Information from: The Blade, http://www.toledoblade.com/