Eighth Circuit Reverses Arkansas Free Speech Victory
The Eighth Circuit court reversed the district court win against Arkansas Act 372, ruling for the State on all claims. Act 372 establishes the criminal offense of “furnishing a harmful item to a minor,” defining harmful materials to include books, films, and live performances depicting sexual conduct or nudity and classifying the knowing provision of these items as a Class A misdemeanor.
For more than three years, ABA and its coalition partners, have been fighting in the courts to defend both the First Amendment and independent bookstores by having AR Act 372 overturned.
ABA and its coalition partners are currently assessing next steps regarding the court’s ruling.
Arkansas members: ABA is waiting for information from our attorneys to share with you in the next week. Watch your email and BTW for updates.