This session will provide practical guidance for public entity leaders, at all levels, to help them navigate this difficult and potentially costly issue.
More and more, public entities are confronted with groups or individuals who intend to test the boundaries of free speech and the right to gather information in public spaces by recording and observing public officials or law enforcement activities, claiming to be doing so to ensure transparency and accountability. In many instances, these individuals aggressively attempt to bait the public official or law enforcement officer to take improper action against them so they can post the video for their followers and, ultimately, to bring legal action against the entity.
It is crucial for public entities to:
- Understand the legal rights of First Amendment Auditors
- Proactively plan to minimize the interruption to public services by First Amendment Auditors
- Effectively navigate encounters with First Amendment Auditors when they inevitably occur
- Avoid damage to Entity reputation and costly litigation
Presenter: Laura Abrams, Esq., General Counsel, The Ohio Plan Inc.