PRI: Public Radio International

Facebook, ACLU join lawsuit seeking to have 'likes' ruled protected form of speech

Thu, 09 Aug 2012 13:12:00 -0500

A Virginia Deputy Sheriff says he was fired for liking the Facebook page of his boss's opponent. Sheriff B.J. Roberts says Ray Carter was fired because of poor performance. Now, a wrongful termination lawsuit may turn on whether Carter's Facebook like is considered a form of free speech.

Torbach

Thu, 09 Aug 2012 13:45:32 -0500

wait a sec at what point is opinion stupid enough to not be protected?

If you voice opinion that you hate the company and people you work at, but love the money (so you stay) that poor attitude that can contribute to 'a hostile' work environment is NOT a reasonable reason to fire someone?

I own a company, hire someone, only to find out they are not really behind the company all that much? isn't that a conflict of interest?

Jonathan

Thu, 09 Aug 2012 14:46:00 -0500

It's worth noting that this would only apply to government employees, at least in terms of hiring and firing. But there are some broader implications as far as whether it's considered free speech.

Jonathan Kealing
Senior Editor