Lynton Blair wrote:

> Forgive me for my ignorance, but I understand that there is supposed to be
> constitutional right to free speech in the USA.  How does this legislation sit
> with this?

Sure, free speech is the way it is supposed to be, but powerful interests control
state legislatures (not just the US Congress).  The laws were freely bought with
cash contributions and, yes, they create an atmosphere where truth must be
whispered.

I assume you know about Oprah Winfrey and Howard Lyman being hauled into a Texas
court for violating Texas anti-disparagement law.  They finally prevailed, at
great expense, but the Florida law, sadly, is still in place (as well as in 12
other states).  My guess is that all anti-consumer junk law would crumble under
the free-speech demands of high-priced lawyers, but I don't have the money to
fight them.

Regards,
Rex Harrill