Critics Claim Ohio 'Indecent Exposure' Bill Could Ban Women's Sports Bras, Bikinis

Proposed legislation aims to protect children from 'harmful and obscene adult performances', but critics argue it could criminalize common women's attire.

Apr. 20, 2026 at 2:56pm

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A dynamic, abstract painting featuring a woman's torso in a sports bra, repeated in overlapping, fractured geometric shapes in shades of blue, green, and purple, conceptually representing the debate over personal expression and public decency laws.The proposed 'indecent exposure' bill in Ohio raises concerns about government overreach and the policing of women's attire.Columbus Today

A proposed 'indecent exposure' bill in Ohio has drawn criticism from legal experts who argue the legislation could potentially ban women from wearing sports bras, bikinis, and other common attire in public. The bill's sponsors claim it is intended to protect children from inappropriate adult performances, but critics say the vague language could lead to arbitrary enforcement and undermine free expression.

Why it matters

This bill highlights the ongoing debate around balancing public decency laws with individual freedoms of expression. While the intent may be to shield minors, the broad language could have unintended consequences that infringe on women's rights and everyday fashion choices.

The details

The bill, known as House Bill 249, was introduced by State Reps. Angela N. King and Josh Williams. They argue it is needed to 'strengthen Ohio law to protect children from harmful and obscene adult performances' and 'reinforce privacy in private spaces.' However, legal experts like Dan Kobil of Capital University say the bill's vague definitions could criminalize a wide range of mainstream works and attire, from drag shows to women's swimwear.

  • House Bill 249 was introduced in the Ohio legislature in early 2026.

The players

Angela N. King

Republican state representative and co-sponsor of House Bill 249.

Josh Williams

Republican state representative and co-sponsor of House Bill 249.

Dan Kobil

Constitutional law professor at Capital University who has criticized the proposed legislation.

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What they’re saying

“The bill's exceptions for 'bona fide' artistic performances are unclear and impractical, potentially leaving decisions about what qualifies as legitimate art to law enforcement. This ambiguity could criminalize a wide range of mainstream works, from films like Mrs. Doubtfire to Shakespearean plays involving cross-dressing, depending on subjective interpretations.”

— Dan Kobil, Constitutional Law Professor

What’s next

The bill is currently under consideration in the Ohio legislature, and its fate remains uncertain as lawmakers weigh the balance between public decency and individual freedoms.

The takeaway

This proposed legislation highlights the ongoing tensions between protecting minors and preserving fundamental rights like freedom of expression. While the intent may be to shield children, the broad language could have unintended consequences that infringe on women's everyday fashion choices and artistic performances.