Entertainment
Federal judge strikes down Texas performance statute citing Dolly Parton
A court declared Texas Senate Bill 12 unconstitutional under the First Amendment.
The short version
- Judge David Hittner ruled that Texas Senate Bill 12 violates the First Amendment by unconstitutionally restricting free speech.[Billboard]
- The statute exposed violators to up to a year in jail and businesses to fines of $10,000 per violation.[Billboard]
- The ruling cited Dolly Parton, Elvis Presley, and Miley Cyrus to demonstrate that the statute's broad reach could penalize mainstream performances.[Billboard]
- The decision was issued on the same day country music icon Dolly Parton passed away at age 80.[Billboard]
Key facts
- Judge David Hittner ruled Texas Senate Bill 12 unconstitutional under the First Amendment on August 26, 2026.[Billboard]
- Under S.B. 12, violations carried penalties of up to a year in jail and $10,000 fines for hosting venues.[Billboard]
- The judge cited Dolly Parton, Elvis Presley, and Miley Cyrus to illustrate performance elements that could face penalties under the statute.[Billboard]
- Dolly Parton died at age 80 on the same day the court ruling was issued.[Billboard]
Sources
Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.