If you frequent shitholes or are the ‘master creator/bator’ of one or if you espouse racist, sexist homophobic, transphobic or any other forms of disgusting hate and bigotry, you might want to think about relocating to great state of Florida where you can sue people who call you out for your hate.
A new bill introduced in the Florida Senate by state Senator Jason Brodeur would make it defamation to accuse someone of racism, sexism, homophobia or transphobia, which could total the freedom of speech in the Sunshine State.
SB 1780 — “Defamation, False Light, and Unauthorized Publication of Name or Likeness,” which was introduced on Friday — would make it easier for an individual to sue another person for defamation.
According to the measure, “an allegation that the plaintiff has discriminated against another person or group because of their race, sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity constitutes defamation per se.” So even when these allegations are false, they are automatically defamatory.
Proving “actual malice” is one of the main requirements of a successful defamation case. And this bill would make that easier, setting up conditions for a fact-finder to automatically infer that actual malice took place after an accusation of discrimination.
In cases of alleged homophobia or transphobia, defendants charged with defamation are not allowed to use the plaintiff’s religious or scientific beliefs as part of their defense. If they are found liable for defamation, the defendant could be fined at least $35,000.
The bill applies to statements made in print, on television, or on social media. It also states that someone who is caught in a viral video engaging in allegedly discriminatory behaviors does not qualify as a “public figure,” giving those people even more grounds to sue.
