ACLU Goes After Speech Limits in Montgomery, Prince George's

The American Civil Liberties Union on Monday demanded that officials who govern parks in Montgomery and Prince George's counties junk rules restricting free speech.

The rules require a permit to carry signs or solicit signatures, according to the ACLU.

"In America, you don't need a permit from the government to talk to people in the park or to carry a sign in the park," said David Rocah, a staff attorney for the ACLU of Maryland.

The case arose when Montgomery County Council candidate Robin Ficker and campaign worker Amy Ginther were stopped by police in Germantown Regional Park on July 4, according to a legal "demand letter" submitted to the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission on Monday.

Ginther held a sign that said: "Robin Ficker: Property Tax Relief,"

A Montgomery parks spokeswoman did not immediately return a call seeking comment Monday.

By Michael Laris |  October 12, 2009; 1:44 PM ET  | Category:  Michael Laris , Montgomery County , Prince George's County
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