A proposed Texas bill, formally titled the Forbidding Unlawful Representation of Roleplaying in Education Act (FURRIES Act), has sparked debate because it aims to prohibit behaviors and appearances associated with the “furry” subculture in public schools.

The legislation targets activities purportedly linked to students identifying with anthropomorphic animal characters, but critics argue it addresses issues that may not exist.

Bill Provisions

Introduced on March 13, 2025, by Republican State Representative Stan Gerdes, the FURRIES Act seeks to ban:

• Dressing in animal-like attire, such as tails, collars, ears, or leashes.

• Engaging in animal-like behaviors, including hissing or meowing.

• Using litter boxes for human waste in schools.

• Undergoing “surgical interventions” to appear more animal-like.

The bill’s name references the furry subculture, a community with an interest in anthropomorphic animal characters that exhibit human traits.

Rep. Gerdes cited an alleged “furry-related incident” in the Smithville Independent School District near Austin as the impetus for the legislation but provided no specific details.

On the same day, Texas Governor Greg Abbott referenced the bill during a speech at the 2025 Texas Pastors Policy Conference, claiming some students were using litter boxes in schools—a claim that has drawn skepticism.

Andrew Mahaleris, Abbott’s press secretary, issued a statement emphasizing the governor’s focus on parental concerns about school environments:

“Governor Abbott has heard from parents across Texas frustrated with school quality, curriculum content, and unwelcoming learning environments.

He encourages parents to report concerns to the Texas Education Agency for investigation and will work with the legislature to strengthen the parental complaint process while supporting students and teachers.”

During a Tuesday hearing, Democratic State Representative James Talarico challenged Gerdes to substantiate the claims behind the bill. Gerdes could not provide concrete evidence, raising doubts about the legislation’s necessity.

Educators, lawmakers, and community members have criticized the FURRIES Act, arguing it targets a non-issue, particularly regarding the alleged use of litter boxes, which lacks documented evidence in Texas schools.

The FURRIES Act remains under review, with ongoing discussions about its implications for school policies and student expression.

Critics view it as a solution in search of a problem, while supporters argue it addresses parental concerns about appropriate school conduct.

For updates on the bill’s progress, consult the Texas Legislature’s official website or contact the Texas Education Agency.