District Attorney and Mayor comment on drag bill and LGBTQ+ community

CHATTANOOGA (WDEF) – As Tennessee lawmakers tackle a variety of issues on alternative lifestyles this session, local leaders have posted differing messages on how they will impact Chattanooga.

District Attorney Coty Wamp says she will fully enforce the new cabaret law that will prohibit drag shows in front of minors.

“This piece of legislation is not as complex as some are making it.”

She says the law does not, as some are reporting, ban drag shows.

Wamp says in Hamilton County, police can use discretion and her office will use discretion in prosecuting any cases.

But she will not issue a blanket statement that she will not enforce the law.

Mayor Tim Kelly has posted a statement supporting the LGBTQ+ community in Chattanooga.

“I will continue to do everything in my power to ensure Chattanooga remains a welcoming, accepting and safe place for everyone.”