Reduce this threat to free speech in N.J.

South Jersey Times Guest Columnist Brian F. McBride writes:

The Founding Fathers of the United States believed firmly in the freedom of speech and the right of citizens to petition the government for a redress of their grievances. This is precisely why these protections are codified in the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

In multiple court cases, including those that have reached the U.S. Supreme Court, the right to freedom of speech -- no matter how hurtful, vulgar or offensive -- is protected. The only exceptions to this right are discriminatory hate speech against protected characteristics, such as race, gender, ethnicity, religion and or disability.

Many people try to sue one another for damages related tp[sic] exercise of their First Amendment rights. These type of lawsuits are often called called "strategic lawsuits against public participation" -- or "SLAPP" suits, for short.