Unannounced “First Amendment Audits”: What You Should Know and Do

DATE: 02/15/2023
TIME: 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. EST
LOCATION: Virtual – Live Webinar

Click Here to Register

What you need to know

Recently,  municipalities in Maine  (and in other states in New England) have received unannounced visits from persons conducting “First Amendment Audits.” They walk into municipal buildings or property, begin filming, and ask questions of the employees to test their understanding of citizens’ rights in public buildings.  Often, they appear to have the goal of prodding and provoking employees to overreact. They then post edited portions of the video on social media, along with insulting commentary.  This activity is generally legal, and public employees need to know how they should—and should not—react.

What you’ll learn

In this webinar, Labor and Employment attorneys Matt Tarasevich and Ann Freeman will walk through what public officials need to know about these situations and tips to navigate them in the moment

If you are unable to attend the webinar, we encourage you to read this article and share it with your staff to help prepare for this scenario.  For more in-depth counsel, contact Matt Tarasevich or Ann Freeman.