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The following was written by Thomas Glessner for the Daily Signal. To read the full article, click here.
On Nov. 13, the Supreme Court announced it will hear arguments in a case with serious implications for free speech nationwide.
In National Institute of Family and Life Advocates vs. Becerra, the court will decide whether pro-life advocates must refer clients to abortion clinics or face fines, penalties, and possible closure.
The basic question the court must decide is whether the government can force pregnancy resource centers to speak a message that they fundamentally disagree with. California says yes. The National Institute of Family and Life Advocates says no.
The implications are stark for Americans across the board, Americans as diverse pro-life advocates, anti-war flag burners, and NFL anthem kneelers. None should be forced to follow government speech. The government may as well be able to force Alcoholics Anonymous to advertise for beer, or to force Hindus to advertise the sale of hamburger meat.
Under the so-called Reproductive FACT Act, which California passed in 2015, pro-life centers must post a sign in their waiting area that provides information to patients on how to obtain a state-funded abortion. The sign must also list a phone number for the patient to call to get the abortion process started.
Noncompliance with this mandate could result in massive fines that would undoubtedly shut down pro-life centers.
To read the full article, click here.
