A federal judge in Texas has overturned a controversial state law aimed at restricting drag performances, declaring it unconstitutional in a ruling that referenced none other than country music icon Dolly Parton.

U.S. District Judge David Hittner, appointed by Ronald Reagan, delivered the decision on Tuesday, affirming that Texas Senate Bill 12 represents an unconstitutional limitation on free speech under the First Amendment.

The ruling coincided with the announcement of Parton’s passing, adding a poignant layer to the decision. Judge Hittner pointedly critiqued the language of the law, which allowed hefty fines of up to $10,000 for venues hosting drag shows and could lead to misdemeanor charges for performers.

In his ruling, Hittner emphasized the overly broad and vague nature of the law, stating it could criminalize a wide range of performances, from cheerleading to traditional theater.

“The law could sweep in activities like cheerleading, dancing, live theater, and other common public occurrences,” he wrote, criticizing its failure to provide a reasonable definition of prohibited acts.

Among the plaintiffs challenging the law was drag performer Brigitte Bandit, who draws inspiration from Dolly Parton’s flamboyant style. Bandit celebrated the decision via social media, sharing her excitement with a screenshot of the ruling.

Hittner noted the absurdity of labeling performances as appealing to “prurient interest,” pointing out that many popular entertainers, including Parton, have often been criticized for their provocative imagery.

“There are ‘erotic’ elements in countless popular performances that could be subject to both civil and criminal penalties under S.B. 12,” he wrote, using Parton as an example of how subjective interpretations could dramatically affect artists.

Following the ruling, Bandit plans to perform a tribute to Parton this weekend at an Austin bar, symbolizing the vibrant resistance of the drag community.

Hittner did not hold back his disdain for the law’s intent, advising those who may be offended by such shows to simply choose not to attend.

“The solution is relatively simple … just don’t go,” he said, asserting that the law was wrongfully impeding artistic expression.

The landmark ruling is the second time in as many hearings that the judge has blocked enforcement of Senate Bill 12. An earlier decision was reversed by the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals last November, leading to this renewed scrutiny.

Texas is among a growing number of states with laws seeking to limit drag performances, stirring national debates on artistic freedom and First Amendment rights.

Despite the judge’s strong objections to Senate Bill 12, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who is currently running for the U.S. Senate, has not yet commented on the ruling or its implications.

The decision has been celebrated by advocates for LGBTQ+ rights and free speech, who view this outcome as a significant victory against rising legislative efforts to curb such forms of expression.

With ongoing discussions about the rights of performers and various artistic expressions, this ruling could set a precedent for similar laws in other states facing legal challenges.

This landmark case not only underscores the complexities of defining public performances but also highlights the cultural significance of drag shows in American society.

As the legal landscape evolves, many are closely watching how states respond and adapt to this ruling, reflecting broader societal values and beliefs about freedom of expression.

In a country divided over issues of artistic expression and identity, the Texas ruling may provoke further dialogue about the need to protect creativity against restrictive legislation.