The Grassroot Institute has filed a federal lawsuit challenging Hawaii’s Act 11, which restricts nonprofits from political speech and advocacy activities. The law threatens dissolution of organizations that engage in election or ballot-issue advocacy.
- Act 11 prohibits nonprofits from engaging in ‘election activity’ and ‘ballot-issue activity’ including speaking for or against candidates and ballot measures.
- The lawsuit argues the law violates First Amendment protections of free speech, association, press freedom, and petition rights.
- Organizations face severe penalties including potential dissolution for violating the law’s restrictions.
- The law affects advocacy groups, unions, charitable nonprofits, and trade associations across Hawaii.
- Legal challenge claims key provisions are unconstitutionally vague, leaving organizations uncertain about lawful advocacy limits.
Source: Hawaii Free Press
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