NRB urges Florida to reject bill threatening Christian broadcasters

The National Religious Broadcasters (NRB) have urged Florida lawmakers to reject a controversial bill known as Senate Bill 752. The NRB warns that this bill could lead to "lawfare" against Christian broadcasters. The bill aims to change Florida's retraction law related to defamation. It would require publishers to remove online content containing false information if a court decides it is false. Additionally, it would let anyone demand changes to older articles if they provide reasons that a "reasonable person" might determine a statement is false. Michael Farris, the NRB's general counsel, expressed concern over these changes in a letter to state Senate president Ben Albritton. He highlights the ambiguity around what a "reasonable person" might conclude, calling it potentially problematic for publishers and broadcasters, particularly those with religious views. Farris illustrated this by stating that a Christian broadcaster might be sued for past articles if they reference someone's gender in a way that contradicts current views on gender identity. He argues that this could open the door for misuse of the law against individuals or organizations simply for expressing their beliefs. The Senate Judiciary Committee had recently voted 8-2 in favor of the bill. Farris concluded his letter by stating that the legislation should be defeated, but he is open to working with lawmakers to address valid issues without harming broadcasters and publishers.