Michigan Is Passing “Hate Speech” Laws, Don’t Use The Wrong Pronouns– or Else

A recent bill passed by the Michigan state House has ignited a contentious debate surrounding the First Amendment and the criminalization of “intimidation” on the topic of gender identity. The bill, which would elevate such actions to the level of a felony, specifically targets “disrespectful acts such as intentional misgendering.” The legislation also aims to expand Michigan’s existing ethnic intimidation law, enacted in 1988, by granting prosecutors greater authority to address acts of vandalism targeted at places of worship.

The Michigan bill secured a 59 to 50 vote in the Michigan House. Republican State Representative Steve Carra voiced concerns about the potential ramifications of the expansion, particularly in relation to free speech. While acknowledging the importance of combatting actual threats, violence, and crime, Carra expressed unease about constructing legislation solely based on an individual’s feelings of fear. Carra maintained that he would not have supported the bill, regardless of any proposed compromises. He called for the bill to be scrapped, asserting that it was unnecessary for the state of Michigan.

State Representative Andrew Beeler strongly opposes Michigan’s hate-crime bill, arguing that it is subjective and irrational, with the potential to criminalize the use of biologically accurate gender pronouns. Beeler’s concerns echo those of free speech advocates who assert that the legislation poses a threat to the fundamental right to express oneself. The bill introduces penalties of up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine for speech deemed to “intimidate another individual.”

While Beeler remains hopeful that the reasonable-person standard might offer some protection against wrongful convictions, an additional provision in the bill raises concerns. It allows individuals found not guilty of hate speech in criminal court to still face civil litigation. If found guilty in civil court, they may be required to pay damages for actual or emotional distress, with a minimum of $25,000. Beeler points out the potential for abuse in civil court proceedings, where subjective terms like “emotional distress” could lead to hefty financial penalties based on a single individual’s decision.

This legislation is similar in nature to the “hate speech” legislation that was signed recently in Israel by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. HB 269 makes it a felony with up to five years in jail for passing out flyers or pamphlets that hurt the feelings of certain groups of people. HB 269 criminalizes speech that is deemed “intimidating” by the state, a subjective and emotional concept that is certainly open to abuse depending on the judge overseeing the case.

One of the core tenets of a healthy society is the protection of free speech. It allows individuals to voice their opinions, challenge established norms, and foster healthy debate. Platforms like Gab.com serve as a crucial place for those concerned about potential limitations on free speech especially amidst rising “hate speech” legislation in the United States of all places.

By providing an open forum, Gab empowers individuals to engage in conversations and express themselves freely without fear of censorship or reprisal. This freedom is not without its challenges, as it means allowing the expression of a wide range of ideas, including those that may be “offensive or objectionable” to some. That being said, Gab’s commitment to free speech as a fundamental principle ensures a more inclusive marketplace of ideas where the best ideas win. In the face of rising hate speech legislation, Gab will continue to play a significant role in safeguarding free speech rights and promoting open dialogue.

We hope you’ll support us in doing so.

Andrew Torba
CEO, Gab.com
Jesus Christ is King

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