Legislation Protecting First Amendment Rights Heading to Governor

COLUMBUS—The Ohio Senate concurred on House amendments to Senate Bill 237, which protects the First Amendment rights of Ohioans. The legislation, sponsored by State Senator Nathan Manning (R-North Ridgeville) and State Senator Theresa Gavarone (R-Bowling Green), creates a judicial process to prevent meritless lawsuits that attempt to intimidate individuals for exercising their Constitutional rights.

Senate Bill 237 specifically will prevent Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPP), which aim to stop a person or group from using their First Amendment rights when discussing public issues. 

"This bill will help protect freedom of speech on public matters, ensuring Ohioans can exercise their Constitutional rights and dismissing these cases early in the process to save them time and money," Manning said.

The bill now goes to the Governor for his signature.