Tell Gov. DeWine: Sign SB 237 to Support Free Speech

Take Action

On December 18, the Ohio General Assembly passed Senate Bill 237. We urge Governor DeWine to support the free speech rights of individuals and sign SB 237 into law.

SB 237 enacts critical protections against Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs). At its most basic definition, a SLAPP is a suit filed against people or organizations who speak out on issues of public interest or concern. They typically arise out of power and financial imbalances between competing parties. It’s a battle of David versus Goliath. More specifically, those suing activists or advocates speaking out on various causes know the massive costs of litigation and legal defense will hinder their advocacy—creating a chilling effect.

SB 237 creates an important balance by allowing courts to determine the merits of lawsuits and counterclaims with an expedited process before defendants bear significant costs in time, money, and stress to fend off such legal claims. However, SB 237 also allows claims and the litigation process to proceed when there is merit

TAKE ACTION: Tell Gov. DeWine to sign SB 237 to Support Free Speech

Message Recipients:
Governor DeWine

Hand holding a red phone and a blue gavel

[The Form Label field is hidden on ACLU message action forms]

Your Message

Subject

Dear Gov. DeWine

I urge you to SIGN Senate Bill 237 and support the free speech rights of Ohioans.

Message Body

It is time for Ohio to join the majority of states with protections against SLAPPs and further protect free speech. I strongly urge you to SIGN SB 237.

Sincerely,

[First Name] [Last Name]

Your Information

All data you enter here will be shared with the message recipient along with your message, per our privacy statement.

Salutation *

(required by some officials)

ABOUT HONORIFIC TITLES

Many public officials use "web mail forms" that this system will send your message to, so you don't have to visit their web sites to communicate with them. The systems that some of these officials use requires that the honorific field be used (Mr., Mrs., Miss, etc.).

Unfortunately, we do not have control of which honorific titles are presented as options. We must adhere to what the officials are using in order for your message to be delivered.

Alternate Salutation

Most elected officials’ constituent email systems accept a very limited set of salutations. Please select the one you would most prefer.

First name *

Last name *

E-mail address *

Address *

Address Line 2

City *

State *

Zip Code *

Phone *

Phone Type *

Show my name in a list of action takers.

Sign me up for ACLU emails so I can stay informed and take action to protect people's rights.

I agree to receive calls and texts (including automated recurring text messages) from the ACLU and its state affiliates at the number I provided above about ways to take action and support the ACLU organizations. Message & Data Rates May Apply. Text STOP to quit. Privacy Statement

Leave this field blank

Tell Gov. DeWine: Sign SB 237 to Support Free Speech

Take Action

Recent participants