What does Preamble of S 1247 do?

This bill, formally titled 'To ensure the ability of public safety officers to retain their right to free speech on matters related to public safety, working conditions, and other matters,' aims to protect the free speech rights of public safety officers. The bill's purpose is to ensure public safety officers can exercise their right to free speech regarding public safety, working conditions, and other relevant matters.

What does SHORT TITLE. of S 1247 do?

This bill is formally titled the Public Safety Free Speech Act.

What does DEFINITIONS. of S 1247 do?

This section defines key terms used within the Act. A 'covered employee' is defined as a qualified law enforcement officer, an individual providing fire-fighting or emergency medical services, or a Federal firefighter. An 'employer' is defined as a law enforcement agency, fire department, or emergency medical services agency, or a political subdivision of a State. “Personally identifiable information” includes data that directly identifies an individual or can be used to identify individuals with other data.

What does CAUSE OF ACTION FOR VIOLATING THE RIGHT TO FREE SPEECH. of S 1247 do?

This section establishes a cause of action for covered employees against their employers for adverse employment actions, including termination, based on the employee's personal opinions. Protected opinions relate to public safety services, employee compensation/benefits, working conditions, employer policies, employment requirements, and political/religious opinions. Plaintiffs who prevail in such actions may receive various forms of relief, including actual, compensatory, and punitive damages, injunctive relief, and attorneys' fees. Certain statements are excluded from protection, including those made on duty, encouraging violence, advocating discrimination, disclosing confidential information, or suggesting withholding essential services. This Act does not preempt or supersede section 1979 of the Revised Statutes (42 U.S.C. 1983) or state laws providing similar protections.

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Public Safety Free Speech Act — S. 1247

Last updated: 4/2/2025 · Introduced: 4/2/2025

Author: Eric Schmitt (R-MO)

TL;DR (AI)

This bill establishes a legal right for public safety officers (law enforcement, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel) to express personal opinions without fear of adverse employment actions, such as termination.
Protected opinions include those related to public safety, working conditions, compensation, and political/religious views, but exclude statements made on duty, encouraging violence, advocating discrimination, disclosing confidential information, or suggesting withholding essential services.
Covered employees who successfully sue their employers for violating their free speech rights may be awarded damages and attorneys' fees, while preserving existing federal and state laws providing similar protections.

119th Congressin committeeHR. 1443(In Committee)Official page

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Other Sections

Includes provisions on preamble, short title., and 2 more.

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