TAMPA — Officials with Pride on the River, which was set for Sept. 24, confirmed to Spectrum Bay News 9 that the event won't be held this year.
President Carrie West cited the recent bill concerning adult live performances. The bill was signed Wednesday.
Drag performers would have potentially been performing for people under 18 because of the promoters and businesses on the Tampa Riverwalk.
“We’re right on the river, no fenced in area near Armature Works," West said. “There are so many bills floating around, drag queens would be considered a performance."
She added: “They are so vague that the interpretation’s going to go wild, law interpretation. And what is right, what is wrong? Who’s going to handle what? That is the biggest question.”
The event was held for the first time last year. West said she hopes the event can return next year.
Meanwhile, officials with St. Pete Pride said their scheduled events, including a June 24 festival, will continue as planned.