The ACLU of Georgia sent a letter to the Villa Rica City Council calling on its members to rescind a new comment policy that they say violates residents’ rights to free speech.
According to a media release provided by the ACLU:
“During a Dec. 10, 2024 city council meeting, council members threatened and removed citizens who spoke in opposition to a proposed road project. The hostile reaction to the comments violates First Amendment protections and infringes on people’s rights to speak freely on an issue of public concern. The newly adopted public comment policy requiring speakers to disclose their name and address, and banning comments vaguely deemed “personal, impertinent, slanderous, or profane,” is unconstitutional and creates a chilling effect on free expression.
‘The ACLU of Georgia urges the City Council to uphold the First Amendment and allow residents to express their views freely, without facing intimidation or unreasonable restrictions. The council’s policy shuts down public participation, which is essential for a healthy democracy,‘ said Cory Isaacson, legal director, ACLU of Georgia.
The ACLU of Georgia urges the Villa Rica City Council to withdraw the enacted public comment policy and foster an environment where community members can engage openly and safely in discussions that impact their lives.“
Read the full letter:
