Texas Lawmakers Push Bill to Ban 'Non-Human Behavior' in Public Schools

The F.U.R.R.I.E.S. Act, backed by Gov. Greg Abbott, seeks to prohibit behaviors linked to the 'furry' subculture while advancing school choice voucher initiatives.

The F.U.R.R.I.E.S. Act would ban behaviors such as barking, meowing, wearing tails, and using litter boxes in public schools, with exceptions for mascots and costume days.
Gov. Greg Abbott has tied the bill to his broader push for school choice vouchers, allowing taxpayer funds to cover private school tuition.
Claims about students acting as 'furries,' including the use of litter boxes, have been widely debunked by schools and officials.
The bill was introduced by Republican state Rep. Stan Gerdes, citing an unspecified 'furry-related incident' in Smithville ISD.
Critics, including Democratic Rep. Gina Hinojosa, argue the bill is unnecessary and ironic, noting potential implications for private schools under voucher programs.