Pennsylvania governor issues order unconstitutionally restricting government employees’ speech

On May 6, 2024, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro issued an executive order banning “scandalous or disgraceful” statements by public employees when they speak as private citizens. The order impermissibly restricts the First Amendment rights of public employees to speak on matters of public concern when they are off the clock. On August 5, FIRE wrote Gov. Shaprio calling on him to revise the order. 

After not receiving a response, FIRE again wrote to Gov. Shapiro on September 9 urging him to rectify the unconstitutional defects of the executive order.