ACLU-VA Urges Henry County to Reconsider Panhandling Ban

The ACLU of Virginia sent a letter on April 10, 2019 to the Henry County Board of Supervisors urging them to reconsider an ordinance banning solicitation of motorists.

Solicitation is constitutionally protected speech, and the broad provisions passed by the Board of Supervisors prohibiting solicitation would not withstand a legal challenge. The Supreme Court has held that the solicitation of money, including begging, is protected speech under the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. We strongly encourage the Board to reconsider the ordinance and make appropriate revisions so that it protects the constitutional rights of Henry County residents.