Full Breakdown
Louisiana's New Law Allows Officials to Sue Over Personal Information Online
11/22/2025, 12:29:15 AM
Overview of the New Law
Starting February 2025, Louisiana will implement a law enabling hundreds of public officials to sue individuals, businesses, and government entities for not removing their personal information from the internet. This legislation, signed by Governor Jeff Landry, allows officials to take legal action if their basic biographical details are not removed within 72 hours of a request. The law applies broadly, covering current statewide elected officials, state legislators, public service commissioners, and various judicial figures, along with their family members.
Key Provisions and Scope
The law's provisions are notably expansive compared to similar statutes in 38 other states, which typically restrict such actions to judges and law enforcement. In Louisiana, the scope includes any online content, such as news articles, social media posts, and political commentary. Violators could face criminal penalties, including fines up to $1,000 and potential imprisonment for up to 90 days. Critics argue that this law could infringe upon First Amendment rights and lead to an increase in frivolous lawsuits.
Context and Motivation
The impetus for this legislation stems from rising concerns about the safety of public officials, particularly judges. High-profile incidents, such as the murder of U.S. District Court Judge Esther Salas’ son in 2020, have heightened fears of violence against those in the judiciary. Louisiana judges have reported threats and stalking incidents, prompting calls for enhanced security measures. Judge Tiffany Chase noted the precarious situation faced by officials, emphasizing the need for protective legislation.
Comparison with Other States
Unlike Louisiana's law, federal statutes do not permit judges to sue for damages or require the removal of personal information from news stories or public discourse. For example, Maryland's judicial security law is less comprehensive, focusing solely on judges and excluding broader categories of elected officials. Other states, such as California and Florida, have enacted measures to protect officials' addresses but do not allow lawsuits against private citizens for posting personal information online.
Criticism and Opposition
Legal experts and free speech advocates have raised concerns about the constitutionality of Louisiana's law. Attorney Scott Sternberg, representing the Louisiana Press Association, criticized the law as "wildly unconstitutional," arguing that it could lead to a chilling effect on free speech and increased litigation costs. The law's rapid passage, without adequate public debate or input from free speech advocates, has also drawn criticism.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Effectively, the Louisiana Legislature has decided to criminalize the publication of a church birthday calendar, the mortgage documents required by federal law, birth announcements, engagement party RSVP websites and traffic tickets,” — Scott Sternberg, Attorney
- “We are in a more precarious situation,” — Judge Tiffany Chase, 4th Circuit Court of Appeal
Conclusion
As Louisiana prepares to implement this controversial law, the implications for free speech, government transparency, and the legal landscape remain significant. The law's broad scope and potential for misuse have sparked a debate about the balance between protecting public officials and upholding citizens' rights to free expression.
