Oklahoma State Rep. Justin Humphrey introduced House Bill 3084, aiming to ban individuals identifying as “furries” from participating in public school activities, News 6 reports.
According to the proposed legislation, students engaging in anthropomorphic behavior or dressing as imaginary animals would be prohibited from school curriculum or activities. Parents or guardians failing to pick up their child from school in violation of the rule would prompt animal control services to intervene and remove the student. The bill does not provide a clear definition of furry behavior.
⚠️WARNING: 30 seconds of Rep. Humphrey talking about why he's sponsoring a bill banning furries from school. pic.twitter.com/FU32iDUXlZ
— Payton May (@paytonnmay) January 17, 2024
Humphrey, previously known for suggesting a Bigfoot hunting season in the state, claims the bill is intended to discourage children from identifying as animals. He mentioned vaccinating and neutering them, humorously suggesting sending them to the pound. The lawmaker referred to a debunked rumor about a Michigan school district providing litter boxes for furry students, expressing concern about children pretending to be animals in classrooms.
“Furries” are individuals who enjoy dressing up as cartoonish animals with estimates suggesting around 250,000 people identify as furries in the United States.
While the bill does not provide a clear rationale, Humphrey appears to base his concerns on misinformation and exaggerated anecdotes. The proposed law would go into effect in November if passed.
