Judge rules First Amendment even applies in Framingham
Judge dismisses many of SMOC suit's charges. SMOC, a big social-services agency, had sued a variety of town officials and residents, alleging a conspiracy to violate the civil rights of the agency and its clients when they spoke out against its expansion plans.
Comments
what does the first amendment have to do with this?
What am I missing?
"The First Amendment to the United States Constitution is part of the United States Bill of Rights that expressly prohibits the United States Congress from making laws "respecting an establishment of religion" or that prohibit the free exercise of religion, laws that infringe the freedom of speech, infringe the freedom of the press, limit the right to peaceably assemble, or limit the right to petition the government for a redress of grievances."
free speech shouldn't result in civil suits
SMOC was suing residents for expressing negative but non-libelous opinions about its activities. This violates the spirit of the First Amendment, and is commonly known as a SLAPP suit (Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation).
SMOC should stick to its proper role, which is to provide necessary social services to Framingham-area residents.
OK, freedom of speech
You're right, I shouldn't be so sloppy.
SMOC was basically using a SLAPP lawsuit to try to silence critics.