A federal judge has blocked Florida officials from threatening TV stations with prosecution for airing pro-abortion rights ads ahead of the November election. U.S. District Judge Mark Walker ruled Thursday that the state’s actions violated free speech protections, emphasizing, “it’s the First Amendment, stupid.”
The decision followed a lawsuit by Floridians Protecting Freedom, backing a measure to protect abortion rights in Florida’s constitution. Governor Ron DeSantis’ administration claims the ads misrepresent Florida’s abortion law, which includes exceptions for medical emergencies and certain crimes.
A hearing is set for Oct. 29 to determine whether the ruling will be extended. Voters will decide on the amendment on Nov. 5, part of a national trend where ballot measures have largely expanded abortion rights since the 2022 Supreme Court ruling overturning Roe v. Wade.
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