1. United States
2. Alaska
3. Letter

I write to you opposing HB 71, which would crack down on Alaskans’ ability to protest, demonstrate, and freely assemble in public places. This bill would use severe criminal and civil penalties to chill constitutionally protected protest and assembly in public places, particularly because its language is vague and could apply to a lot of different conduct. Alaskans overwhelmingly opposed this bill last year because it sends a threatening message to people who want to exercise their rights to protest and assemble. While HB 71 would tread on Alaskans' constitutional rights, it also has the clear potential to be used to target protected speech that the state disfavors and could be used by law enforcement as a tool to criminalize homelessness. Freedom of speech and assembly are fundamental rights all Alaskans and Americans enjoy. Please oppose HB 71 to protect Alaskans' First Amendment rights as well as our rights under Article I Section 5 of the Alaska Constitution.