This story just broke in Baltimore. I’m working on it now, but here’s a quick snip from a ruling by U.S. District Court Judge? Marvin J. Garbis.
The judge ruled today that it is UNCONSTITUTIONAL to require pro-life pregnancy centers to post signs with language mandated by the government. The Archdiocese of Baltimore had challenged a Baltimore City law passed in 2009 that required the posting of such signs.
Stay tuned. Much, much more to come!
The Court holds that the Ordinance violates the Freedom of Speech Clause of Article I of the Constitution of the United States and is unenforceable. Whether a provider of pregnancy-related services is “pro-life” or “pro-choice,” it is for the provider–not the government–to decide when and how to discuss abortion and birth-control methods. The Government cannot, consistent with the First Amendment, require a “pro life” pregnancy-related service center to post a sign as would be required by the Ordinance.
– Marvin J. Garbis, United States District Judge
UPDATED: Here’s a link to the complete story.