This bill seeks to penalize online vendors who sell what is classified as an ‘obscene device’ without proper age verification. Retailers found in violation of these regulations may incur fines of up to $4,000 and face a potential prison sentence of one year.
Additionally, a separate bill from the Trump administration urges major retailers, including Walmart, Costco, and CVS, to cease the resale of sexual toys, limiting their availability to ‘sexually oriented businesses’ such as adult shops and strip clubs.
As anticipated, the legislation provoked significant criticism, with numerous individuals accusing the Trump administration of encroaching upon personal privacy. A Texas statute from 1973 prohibited the sale of sexual devices throughout the state.
In 2003, this law was revised to criminalize the possession of more than six such items. Nevertheless, five years later, this amendment was ruled unconstitutional. In an interview with the Daily Observer, Dr. Shamyra Howard, a licensed clinical social worker and sex educator, remarked, ‘Mandating identification for the purchase of a sexual device conveys the notion that pleasure is subject to regulation and oversight.
It pathologizes a completely normal behavior and transforms a private, healthy activity into a source of shame. This type of legislation does not safeguard individuals; rather, it humiliates them. It establishes unnecessary obstacles and perpetuates damaging stigmas that many have worked diligently to eradicate.’
She emphasized the advantages of utilizing these toys and the significance of facilitating their purchase. “Often neglected is the fact that sexual toys serve not only for pleasure but also contribute to overall sexual wellness.
“Men also utilize them, both for enjoyment and to address erectile dysfunction, neuropathy caused by diabetes, and inadequate blood circulation associated with hypertension. “Certain devices are specifically created to aid in pain management, promote pelvic floor health, and sexual toys can assist individuals in coping with mental health challenges by providing stress relief and aiding in the restoration of intimacy following medical interventions or traumatic experiences.”
The campaign against masturbation initiated by Trump and his administration appears to have taken many by surprise and provoked considerable anger. Kindly share this article with your family and friends on Facebook.
