Nicholas Blanchard, the conservative activist who sued over the policy, attended Wednesday’s meeting to protest the board’s new version, saying it was ‘still unconstitutional.’
first amendment
‘Corn Pop’ free speech court case prompts review of Augusta schools public comment policy
U.S. District Judge Stacey D. Neumann has prohibited the Augusta Board of Education from enforcing parts of a policy that she deemed likely violate the First Amendment.
Last week’s free speech ruling in Augusta has statewide implications
A conservative activist known as Corn Pop won a legal victory in his First Amendment lawsuit over the Augusta School Board’s comment policies. Here’s what it could mean for the hundreds of other school districts in Maine.
Judge rules against Augusta school board in ‘Corn Pop’ free speech lawsuit
The ruling orders the school board to stop enforcing certain restrictions on public comments during its meetings while the lawsuit continues.
Federal judge weighs order to allow activist free speech at Augusta school board meetings
A lawyer for Nicholas Blanchard, who sued the Augusta Board of Education, said in federal court Friday the board’s enforcement of its public comment policy violates the conservative activist’s constitutional right to free speech.
Maine leaders criticize Supreme Court ruling against ban on ‘conversion therapy’ in Colorado
The court sided with a Christian counselor challenging a ban on conversion therapy for LGBTQ+ minors in Colorado. The practice has been banned in Maine since 2019.
ICE agents in Maine did not follow policy when they threatened observers, DHS lawyer says
An attorney for the Department of Homeland Security said immigration agents inappropriately told Maine residents their names would be added to a ‘domestic terrorists’ database.
Allegations, prayers fly at Augusta school board meeting
Board member James Orr disputed allegations by Superintendent Martha Witham he violated the school board’s ethics policy.
Court rules Maine can’t enforce law prohibiting foreign spending on campaigns
The 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a lower court’s decision to temporarily halt the state from enforcing the law, which voters approved in 2023.
Right to know advocate gives talk on Maine Freedom of Access Act to public officials in Franklin County
Judith Meyer, former executive editor of the Sun Journal, gave an overview of the law to public officials, residents and others.