02/10/2020

Bill Will Further Protect Free Speech

Ohio News Media Association supports the legislation

Lively public debate and dialogue about community issues are a big part of our democratic process. Residents must be able to discuss issues, and journalists must be able to report on them — each without fear of landing in court facing accusations of libel or defamation.

Yet, sadly, there are people who sue both journalists and other citizens for defamation and libel even when there is nothing false about statements that are clearly opinion. In these cases, the plaintiff often knows he or she will eventually lose, yet still files the civil suit as a simple tactic to silence or slow the discourse or as a ploy to deter others from speaking out on the issue.

Such suits are commonly known in my business as Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation — or SLAPP.

Please select this link to read the complete article from The Vindicator.