ny constitution fresh squeezed 96
Provisions

I.8 of 1939 • Freedom of speech and press; criminal prosecutions for libel.

APPROVED

The Text

Every citizen may freely speak, write and publish his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that right; and no law shall be passed to restrain or abridge the liberty of speech or of the press. In all criminal prosecutions or indictments for libels, the truth may be given in evidence to the jury; and if it shall appear to the jury that the matter charged as libelous is true, and was published with good motives and for justifiable ends, the party shall be acquitted; and the jury shall have the right to determine the law and the fact.


A Few Facts

• Joined the Constitution in 1939

• In Article I: Bill Of Rights

• Has 102 words

• Was proposed by the Constitutional Convention

• Went to NYS voters as proposed amendment 1 of 1938

• Re-upped the text of a previously existing provision

• Amends or builds on:
1895-I.8

Credits

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