Opinion ID: 2384623
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: compendium of state free speech clauses

Text: ALABAMA 1819 (effective Dec. 14, 1819) Art. I, § 8: Every citizen may freely speak, write, and publish his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty. Art. VI, § 14: In prosecutions for the publishing of papers investigating the official conduct of officers or men in public capacity, or when the matter published is proper for public information, the truth thereof may be given in evidence; and in all indictments for libels, the jury shall have a right to determine the law and the facts, under the direction of the courts. 1861 (effective Mar. 21, 1861) Same as 1819 provisions. 1865 (effective Sept. 30, 1865) Art. I, § 5: That every citizen may freely speak, write, and publish his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty. Art. I, § 13: That in prosecutions for the publication of papers investigating the official conduct of officers or men in public capacity, or when the matter published is proper for public information, the truth thereof may be given in evidence; and that in all indictments for libels, the jury shall have the right to determine the law and the facts, under the direction of the court. 1867 (effective July 13, 1868) Art. I, § 6: That any citizen may speak, write, and publish his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty. Art. I, § 14: That in prosecution for the publication of papers investigating the official conduct of officers, or men in public capacity, or when the matter published is proper for public information, the truth thereof may be given in evidence; and that in all indictments for libel, the jury shall have the right to determine the law and the facts under the direction of the court. 1875 (effective Dec. 6, 1875) Art. I, § 5: Same as Art. I, § 6 (1867). Art. I, § 13: That in prosecutions for the publication of papers investigating the official conduct of officers, or men in public capacity, or when the matter published is proper for public information, the truth thereof may be given in evidence; and that in all indictments for libel the jury shall have the right to determine the law and the facts under the direction of the court. 1901 (effective Nov. 28, 1901) (present) Art. I, § 4: That no law shall ever be passed to curtail or restrain the liberty of speech or of the press; and any person may speak, write, and publish his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty. Art. I, § 12: That in all prosecutions for libel or for the publication of papers investigating the official conduct of officers or men in public capacity, or when the matter published is proper for public information, the truth thereof may be given in evidence; and that in all indictments for libel, the jury shall have the right to determine the law and the facts under the direction of the court. ALASKA 1956 (effective Jan. 3, 1959) (present) Art. I, § 5: Every person may freely speak, write, and publish on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that right. ARIZONA 1910 (effective Feb. 14, 1912) (present) Art. II, § 6: Every person may freely speak, write, and publish on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that right. ARKANSAS 1836 (effective June 15, 1836) Art. II, § 7: That printing-presses shall be free to every person; and no law shall ever be made to restrain the rights thereof. The free communication of thoughts and opinions is one of the invaluable rights of man; and every citizen may freely speak, write and print on any subjectbeing responsible for the abuse of that liberty. Art. II, § 8: In prosecutions for the publication of papers investigating the official conduct of officers or men in public capacity, or where the matter published is proper for public information, the truth thereof may be given in evidence; and in all indictments for libels, the jury shall have the right to determine the law and the facts. 1861 (effective June 1, 1861) Same as 1836 provisions. 1864 (effective Apr. 11, 1864) Art. II, § 7: That printing-presses shall be free to every person; and no law shall ever be made to restrain the rights thereof. The free communication of thoughts and opinions is one of the invaluable rights of man; and every citizen may freely speak, write and print, on any subjectbeing responsible for the abuse of that liberty. Art. II, § 8: In prosecutions for the publication of papers investigating the official conduct of officers or men in public capacity, or where the matter published is proper for public information, the truth thereof may be given in evidence, and in all indictments for libels, the jury shall have the right to determine the law and the facts. 1868 (effective June 22, 1868) Art. I, § 2: The liberty of the press shall forever remain inviolate. The free communication of thoughts and opinions is one of the invaluable rights of man, and all persons may freely speak, write and publish their sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of such right. In all criminal prosecutions for libel, the truth may be given in evidence to the jury, and if it shall appear to the jury, that the matter charged as libellous is true, and was published with good motives, and for justifiable ends, the party shall be acquitted. 1874 (effective Oct. 13, 1874) (present) Art. II, § 6: The liberty of the press shall forever remain inviolate. The free communication of thoughts and opinions is one of the invaluable rights of man; and all persons may freely write and publish their sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of such right. In all criminal prosecutions for libel the truth may be given in evidence to the jury; and, if it shall appear to the jury that the matter charged as libelous is true, and was published with good motives and for justifiable ends, the party charged shall be acquitted. CALIFORNIA 1849 (effective Sept. 9, 1850) Art. I, § 9: Every citizen may freely speak, write and publish his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that right; and no law shall be passed to restrain or abridge the liberty of speech or of the press. In all criminal prosecutions or indictments for libels, the truth may be given in evidence to the jury; and if it shall appear to the jury that the matter charged as libellous is true, and was published with good motives and for justifiable ends, the party shall be acquitted; and the jury shall have the right to determine the law and the fact. 1879 (effective May 7, 1879) Art. I, § 9: Every citizen may freely speak, write, and publish his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that right; and no law shall be passed to restrain or abridge the liberty of speech or of the press. In all criminal prosecutions for libels, the truth may be given in evidence to the jury; and if it shall appear to the jury that the matter charged as libelous is true, and was published with good motives, and for justifiable ends, the party shall be acquitted; and the jury shall have the right to determine the law and the fact. Indictments found, or information laid, for publications in newspapers, shall be tried in the county where such newspapers have their publication office, or in the county where the party alleged to be libeled resided at the time of the alleged publication, unless the place of trial shall be changed for good cause. Present (1879 as amended June 3, 1980) Art. I, § 2(a): Every citizen may freely speak, write and publish his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of this right. A law may not restrain or abridge liberty of speech or press. Art. I, § 2(b): A publisher, editor, reporter, or other person connected with or employed upon a newspaper, magazine, or other periodical publication, or by a press association or wire service, or any person who has been so connected or employed, shall not be adjudged in contempt by a judicial, legislative, or administrative body, or any other body having the power to issue subpoenas, for refusing to disclose the source of any information procured while so connected or employed for publication in a newspaper, magazine or other periodical publication, or for refusing to disclose any unpublished information obtained or prepared in gathering, receiving or processing of information for communication to the public. Nor shall a radio or television news reporter or other person connected with or employed by a radio or television station, or any person who has been so connected or employed, be so adjudged in contempt for refusing to disclose the source of any information procured while so connected or employed for news or news commentary purposes on radio or television, or for refusing to disclose any unpublished information obtained or prepared in gathering, receiving or processing of information for communication to the public. As used in this subdivision, unpublished information includes information not disseminated to the public by the person from whom disclosure is sought, whether or not related information has been disseminated and includes, but is not limited to, all notes, outtakes, photographs, tapes or other data of whatever sort not itself disseminated to the public through a medium of communication, whether or not published information based upon or related to such material has been disseminated. COLORADO 1876 (effective Aug. 1, 1876) (present) Art. II, § 10: That no law shall be passed impairing the freedom of speech; that every person shall be free to speak, write, or publish whatever he will on any subject, being responsible for all abuse of that liberty; and that all suits and prosecutions for libel, the truth thereof may be given in evidence, and the jury, under the direction of the court, shall determine the law and the fact. CONNECTICUT 1776 (effective Aug. 1776) Para. 2: And be it further enacted and declared, That no Man's Life shall be taken away: No Man's Honor or good Name shall be stained.... 1818 (effective Nov. 1818) Art. I, § 5: Every citizen may freely speak, write, and publish his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty. Art. I, § 6: No law shall ever be passed to curtail or restrain the liberty of speech or of the press. Art. I, § 7: In all prosecutions or indictments for libels the truth may be given in evidence, and the jury shall have the right to determine the law and the facts, under the direction of the court. 1955 (effective Jan. 1, 1955) Art. I, § 5: Every citizen may freely speak, write and publish his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty. Art. I, § 6: No law shall ever be passed to curtail or restrain the liberty of speech or of the press. Art. I, § 7: In all prosecutions or indictments for libels, the truth may be given in evidence, and the jury shall have the right to determine the law and the facts, under the direction of the court. 1965 (effective Dec. 30, 1965) (present) Art. I, §§ 4, 5, and 6 same as Art. I, §§ 5, 6, and 7 (1955). DELAWARE 1776 (effective Sept. 20, 1776) Declaration of Rights and Fundamental Rules, § 23: That the Liberty of the Press ought to be inviolably preserved. 1792 (effective June 12, 1792) Art. I, § 5: The press shall be free to every citizen who undertakes to examine the official conduct of men acting in a public capacity; and any citizen may print on any subject, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty. In prosecutions for publications investigating the proceedings of officers, or where the matter published is proper for public information, the truth thereof may be given in evidence; and in all indictments for libels, the jury may determine the facts and the law, as in other cases. 1831 (effective Dec. 2, 1831) Art. I, § 5: The press shall be free to every citizen who undertakes to examine the official conduct of men acting in a public capacity, and any citizen may print on any such subject, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty. In prosecutions for publications investigating the proceedings of officers, or where the matter published is proper for public information, the truth thereof may be given in evidence; and in all indictments for libels the jury may determine the facts and the law, as in other cases. 1897 (effective June 10, 1897)(present) Art. I, § 5: The press shall be free to every citizen who undertakes to examine the official conduct of men acting in a public capacity; and any citizen may print on any subject, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty. In prosecutions for publications, investigating the proceedings of officers, or where the matter published is proper for public information, the truth thereof may be given in evidence; and in all indictments for libels the jury may determine the facts and the law, as in other cases. FLORIDA 1838 (effective Mar. 3, 1845) Art. I, § 5: That every citizen may freely speak, write, and publish his sentiments, on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty; and no law shall ever be passed to curtail, abridge, or restrain the liberty of speech or of the press. Art. I, § 15: That in all prosecutions and indictments for libel the truth may be given in evidence; and, if it shall appear to the jury that the libel is true, and published with good motives, and for justifiable ends, the truth shall be a justification; and the jury shall be the judges of the law and facts. 1861 (effective Apr. 27, 1861) Same as 1838 provisions. 1865 (effective Nov. 7, 1865) Art. I, § 5: That every citizen may freely speak, write, and publish his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty; and no law shall be passed to curtail, abridge, or restrain the liberty of speech or of the press. Art. I, § 15: That in all prosecutions and indictments for libel, the truth may be given in evidence; and, if it shall appear to the jury that the libel is true, and published with good motives, and for justifiable ends, the truth shall be a justification; and the jury shall be the judges of the law and facts. 1868 (effective July 4, 1868) Art. I, § 10: Every citizen may fully speak and write his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that right, and no law shall be passed to restrain or abridge the liberty of speech or the press. In all criminal prosecutions and civil actions for libel the truth may be given in evidence to the jury, and if it shall appear that the matter charged as libellous is true, but was published from good motives, the party shall be acquitted or exonerated. 1885 (effective June 1, 1887) Art. I, § 13: Every person may fully speak and write his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that right, and no laws shall be passed to restrain or abridge the liberty of speech or of the press. In all criminal prosecutions and civil actions for libel the truth may be given in evidence to the jury, and if it shall appear that the matter charged as libellous is true, but was published for good motives, the party shall be acquitted or exonerated. 1969 (effective Jan. 1, 1969) (present) Art. I, § 4: Every person may speak, write and publish his sentiments on all subjects but shall be responsible for the abuse of that right. No law shall be passed to restrain or abridge the liberty of speech or of the press. In all criminal prosecutions and civil actions for defamation the truth may be given in evidence. If the matter charged as defamatory is true and was published with good motives, the party shall be acquitted or exonerated. GEORGIA 1777 (effective Feb. 5, 1777) Art. LXI: Freedom of the press and trial by jury to remain inviolate forever. 1789 (effective May 6, 1789) Art. IV, § 3: Freedom of the press and trial by jury shall remain inviolate. 1798 (effective May 30, 1798) Art. IV, § 5: Freedom of the press, and trial by jury, as heretofore used in this State, shall remain inviolate; and no ex post facto laws shall be passed. 1861 (effective Aug. 1861) Art. I, § 8: Freedom of thought and opinion, freedom of speech, and freedom of the press, are inherent elements of political liberty. But while every citizen may freely speak, write and print, on any subject, he shall be responsible for the abuse of that liberty. 1865 (effective Dec. 1865) Art. I, § 6: Freedom of speech, and freedom of the press, are inherent elements of political liberty. But while every citizen may freely speak or write or print on any subject, he shall be responsible for the abuse of the liberty. 1868 (effective June 25, 1868) Art. I, § 9: Freedom of speech and freedom of the press are inherent elements of political liberty. But while every citizen may freely speak, or write, or print on any subject, he shall be responsible for the abuse of the liberty. Art. I, § 19: In all prosecutions or indictments for libel the truth may be given in evidence, and the jury shall have the right to determine the law and the facts. 1877 (effective Dec. 1877) Art. I, § 1, para. 15: No law shall ever be passed to curtail, or restrain, the liberty of speech, or of the press; any person may speak, write, and publish his sentiments, on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty. Art. I, § 2, para. 1: In all prosecutions or indictments for libel the truth may be given in evidence; and the jury in all criminal cases, shall be the judges of the law and the facts. The power of the Judges to grant new trials in cases of conviction, is preserved. 1945 (effective Dec. 1945) Art. I, § 1, para. 15: No law shall ever be passed to curtail, or restrain the liberty of speech, or of the press; any person may speak, write and publish his sentiments, on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty. Art. I, § 2, para. 1: In all prosecutions or indictments for libel the truth may be given in evidence; and the jury in all criminal cases, shall be the judges of the law and the facts. The power of the judges to grant new trials, in cases of conviction, is preserved. 1976 (effective Jan. 1, 1977) Art. I, § 1, para. 4: Same as Art. I, § 1, para. 15 (1945). Art. I, § 1, para. 8: In all prosecutions or indictments for libel the truth may be given in evidence; and the jury in all criminal cases, shall be the judges of the law and the facts. The power of the judges to grant new trials in case of conviction is preserved. 1983 (effective July 1, 1983) (present) Art. I, § 1, para. 5: No law shall be passed to curtail or restrain the freedom of speech or of the press. Every person may speak, write, and publish sentiments on all subjects but shall be responsible for the abuse of that liberty. Art. I, § 1, para. 6: In all civil or criminal actions for libel, the truth may be given in evidence; and, if it shall appear to the trier of fact that the matter charged as libelous is true, the party shall be discharged. HAWAII 1840 (effective Oct. 8, 1840) (constitutional monarchy) Contains a rudimentary bill of rights, but no specific free speech provisions. 1852 (effective June 14, 1852) (constitutional monarchy) Art. III: All men may freely speak, write and publish their sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that right; and no law shall be passed to restrain or abridge the liberty of speech, or of the press. 1864 (effective Aug. 20, 1864)(constitutional monarchy) Art. III: All men may freely speak, write and publish their sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that right, and no law shall be enacted to restrain the liberty of speech, or of the press, except such laws as may be necessary for the protection of His Majesty the King and the Royal Family. 1887 (effective July 7, 1887) (constitutional monarchy) Art. III: All men may freely speak, write and publish their sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that right, and no law shall be enacted to restrain the liberty of speech, or of the press. 1894 (effective July 4, 1894) (Republic) Art. III: All men may freely speak, write and publish their sentiments on all subjects; and no law shall be enacted to restrain the liberty of speech or of the press; but all persons shall be responsible for the abuse of such right. Provided, however, that the Legislature may enact such laws as may be necessary, to restrain and prevent the publication or public utterance of indecent or seditious language. 1959 (effective Aug. 21, 1959) Art. I, § 3: No law shall be enacted respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof, or abridging the freedom of speech or of the press, or the right of the people peaceably to assemble and to petition the government for a redress of grievances. Present (1959 as amended Nov. 7, 1978) Art. I, § 4: No law shall be enacted respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof, or abridging the freedom of speech or of the press or the right of the people peaceably to assemble and to petition the government for a redress of grievances. IDAHO 1889 (effective July 3, 1890) (present) Art. I, § 9: Every person may freely speak, write and publish on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty. ILLINOIS 1818 (effective Dec. 3, 1818) Art. VIII, § 22: That the printing-presses shall be free to every person who undertakes to examine the proceedings of the general assembly or of any branch of government; and no law shall ever be made to restrain the right thereof. The free communication of thoughts and opinions is one of the invaluable rights of man, and every citizen may freely speak, write, and print on any subject, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty. Art. VIII, § 23: In prosecutions for the publication of papers investigating the official conduct of officers, or of men acting in a public capacity, or where the matter published is proper for public information, the truth thereof may be given in evidence. And in all indictments for libels the jury shall have the right of determining both the law and the fact, under the direction of the court, as in other cases. 1848 (effective Apr. 1, 1848) Art. XIII, § 23: The printing-presses shall be free to every person who undertakes to examine the proceedings of the general assembly, or any branch of government; and no law shall ever be made to restrain the right thereof. The free communication of thoughts and opinions is one of the invaluable rights of man; and every citizen may freely speak, write, and print on any subject, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty. Art. XIII, § 24: In prosecutions for the publication of papers investigating the official conduct of officers, or of men acting in a public capacity, or when the matter published is proper for public information, the truth thereof may be given in evidence; and in all indictments for libels, the jury shall have the right of determining both the law and the fact, under the direction of the court, as in other cases. 1870 (effective Aug. 8, 1870) Art. II, § 4: Every person may freely speak, write, and publish on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty; and in all trials for libel, both civil and criminal, the truth, when published with good motives and for justifiable ends, shall be a sufficient defense. 1971 (effective July 1, 1971)(present) Art. I, § 4: All persons may speak, write and publish freely, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty. In trials for libel, both civil and criminal, the truth, when published with good motives and for justifiable ends, shall be a sufficient defense. INDIANA 1816 (effective Dec. 11, 1816) Art. I, § 9: That the printing-presses shall be free to every person who undertakes to examine the proceedings of the legislature, or any branch of government; and no law shall ever be made to restrain the right thereof. The free communication of thoughts and opinions is one of the invaluable rights of man; and every citizen may freely speak, write, and print on any subject, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty. Art. I, § 10: In prosecution for the publication of papers investigating the official conduct of officers, or men in a public capacity, or where the matter published is proper for the public information, the truth thereof may be given in evidence; and, in all indictments for libels, the jury shall have a right to determine the law and the facts, under the direction of the court, as in other cases. 1851 (effective Nov. 1, 1851)(present) Art. I, § 9: No law shall be passed restraining the free interchange of thought and opinion, or restricting the right to speak, write, or print freely on any subject whatever; but for the abuse of that right every person shall be responsible. Art. I, § 10: In all prosecutions for libel, the truth of the matters alleged to be libellous may be given in justification. IOWA 1846 (effective Dec. 28, 1846) Art. I, § 7: Every person may speak, write, and publish his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that right. No law shall be passed to restrain or abridge the liberty of speech, or of the press. In all prosecutions or indictments for libel, the truth may be given in evidence to the jury, and if it appear to the jury that the matter charged as libellous was true, and was published with good motives and justifiable ends, the party shall be acquitted. 1857 (effective Sept. 1857)(present) Same as 1846 provision. KANSAS 1859 (effective Jan. 29, 1861)(present) Bill of Rights, § 11: The liberty of the press shall be inviolate; and all persons may freely speak, write, or publish their sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of such right; and in all civil or criminal actions for libel, the truth may be given in evidence to the jury, and if it shall appear that the alleged libellous matter was published for justifiable ends, the accused party shall be acquitted. KENTUCKY 1792 (effective June 1, 1792) Art. XII, (para. 7): That the printing-presses shall be free to every person who undertakes to examine the proceedings of the legislature or any branch of government, and no law shall ever be made to restrain the right thereof. The free communications of thoughts and opinions is one of the invaluable rights of man, and every citizen may freely speak, write, and print on any subject, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty. Art. XII, (para. 8): In prosecutions for publications of papers, investigating the official conduct of officers or men in a public capacity, or where the matter published is proper for public information, the truth thereof may be given in evidence. And in all indictments for libels, the jury shall have a right to determine the law and the facts, under the direction of the court, as in other cases. 1799 (effective Jan. 1, 1800) Art. X, § 7: That printing-presses shall be free to every person who undertakes to examine the proceedings of the legislature or any branch of government, and no law shall ever be made to restrain the right thereof. The free communication of thoughts and opinions is one of the invaluable rights of man, and every citizen may freely speak, write, and print on any subject, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty. Art. X, § 8: In prosecutions for the publication of papers investigating the official conduct of officers or men in a public capacity, or where the matter published is proper for public information, the truth thereof may be given in evidence. And in all indictments for libels, the jury shall have a right to determine the law and the facts, under the direction of the court, as in other cases. 1850 (effective Jan. 1, 1851) Art. XIII, § 9: That printing-presses shall be free to every person who undertakes to examine the proceedings of the general assembly, or any branch of government, and no law shall ever be made to restrain the right thereof. The free communication of thoughts and opinions is one of the invaluable rights of man, and every citizen may freely speak, write, and print on any subject, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty. Art. XIII, § 10: In prosecutions for the publication of papers investigating the official conduct of officers or men in a public capacity, or where the matter published is proper for public information, the truth thereof may be given in evidence; and in all indictments for libels, the jury shall have a right to determine the law and the facts, under the direction of the court, as in other cases. 1890 (effective Jan. 1, 1892)(present) Bill of Rights, § 1: All men are, by nature, free and equal, and have certain inherent and inalienable rights, among which may be reckoned: . . . . . Fourth: The right of freely communicating their thoughts and opinions. Bill of Rights, § 8: Printing presses shall be free to every person who undertakes to examine the proceedings of the General Assembly or any branch of government, and no law shall ever be made to restrain the right thereof. Every person may freely and fully speak, write and print on any subject, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty. Bill of Rights, § 9: In prosecutions for the publication of papers investigating the official conduct of officers or men in a public capacity, or where the matter published is proper for public information, the truth thereof may be given in evidence; and in all indictments for libel the jury shall have the right to determine the law and the facts, under the direction of the court, as in other cases. LOUISIANA 1812 (effective Apr. 30, 1812) Art. VI, § 21: Printing-presses shall be free to every person who undertakes to examine the proceedings of the legislature, or any branch of the government; and no law shall ever be made to restrain the right thereof. The free communication of thoughts and opinions is one of the invaluable rights of man, and every citizen may freely speak, write, and print on any subject, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty. 1845 (effective Jan. 25, 1846) Title VI, Art. 110: The press shall be free. Every citizen may freely speak, write, and publish his sentiments on all subjects; being responsible for an abuse of this liberty. 1852 (effective Jan. 15, 1853) Title VI, Art. 106: Same as Title VI, Art. 110 (1845). 1861 (effective Mar. 15, 1861) Same as 1852 provision. 1868 (effective July 16, 1868) Title I, Art. 4: The press shall be free; every citizen may freely speak, write, and publish his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of this liberty. 1879 (effective Jan. 8, 1880) Bill of Rights, Art. 1: No laws shall be passed respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof, or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press, or the right of the people peaceably to assemble and petition the government for a redress of grievances. General Provisions, Art. 168: In all proceedings of indictments for libel, the truth thereof may be given in evidence. The jury in all criminal cases shall be judges of the law and of the facts on the question of guilt or innocence, having been charged as to the law applicable to the case by the presiding judge. 1898 (effective May 12, 1898) Bill of Rights, Art. 3: No law shall ever be passed to curtail or restrain the liberty of speech or of the press; any person may speak, write and publish his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty. General Provisions, Art. 179: In all proceedings or indictments for libel, the truth thereof may be given in evidence. The jury in all criminal cases shall be the judges of the law and of the facts on the question of guilt or innocence, having been charged as to the law applicable to the case by the presiding judge. 1913 (effective Nov. 22, 1913) Same as 1898 provisions. 1921 (effective July 1, 1921) Art. I, § 3: Same as Bill of Rights, Art. 3 (1898). Art. XIX, § 9: Same as General Provisions, Art. 179 (1898). 1974 (effective Dec. 31, 1974)(present) Art. I, § 7: No law shall curtail or restrain the freedom of speech or of the press. Every person may speak, write, and publish his sentiments on any subject, but is responsible for abuse of that freedom. MAINE 1820 (effective Mar. 15, 1820)(present) Art. I, § 4: Every citizen may freely speak, write, and publish his sentiments on any subject, being responsible for the abuse of this liberty. No laws shall be passed regulating or restraining the freedom of the press; and, in prosecutions for any publication respecting the official conduct of men in public capacity, or the qualifications of those who are candidates for the suffrages of the people, or where the matter published is proper for public information, the truth thereof may be given in evidence; and in all indictments for libels, the jury, after having received the direction of the court, shall have a right to determine, at their discretion, the law and the fact. MARYLAND 1776 (effective Nov. 8, 1776) Declaration of Rights, VIII: That freedom of speech and debates, or proceedings in the Legislature, ought not to be impeached in any other court or judicature. Declaration of Rights, XXXVIII: That the liberty of the press ought to be inviolably preserved. 1851 (effective July 4, 1851) Declaration of Rights, Art. 8: That freedom of speech and debate, or proceedings in the legislature, ought not to be impeached in any court of judicature. Declaration of Rights, Art. 38: Same as Declaration of Rights, XXXVIII (1776). 1864 (effective Nov. 1, 1864) Declaration of Rights, Art. 10: Same as Declaration of Rights, Art. 8 (1851). Declaration of Rights, Art. 40: That the liberty of the press ought to be inviolably preserved; that every citizen of the State ought to be allowed to speak, write, and publish his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty. 1867 (effective Oct. 5, 1867)(present) Declaration of Rights, Art. 10: Same as 1864 provision. Declaration of Rights, Art. 40: That the liberty of the press ought to be inviolably preserved; that every citizen of the State ought to be allowed to speak, write, and publish his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that privilege. MASSACHUSETTS 1780 (effective Oct. 25, 1780) Declaration of Rights, Art. XVI: The liberty of the press is essential to the security of freedom in a State: it ought not, therefore, to be restrained in this commonwealth. Declaration of Rights, Art. XXI: The freedom of deliberation, speech, and debate, in either house of the legislature, is so essential to the rights of the people, that it cannot be the foundation of any accusation or prosecution, action or complaint, in any other court or place whatsoever. Present (1780 as amended Nov. 2, 1948) Declaration of Rights, Art. XVI: The liberty of the press is essential to the security of freedom in a state: it ought not, therefore, to be restrained in this commonwealth. The right of free speech shall not be abridged. Declaration of Rights, Art. XXI: Unchanged. MICHIGAN 1835 (effective Jan. 26, 1837) Art. I, § 7: Every person may freely speak, write, and publish his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that right; and no laws shall be passed to restrain or abridge the liberty of speech or of the press. In all prosecutions or indictments for libels, the truth may be given in evidence to the jury; and if it shall appear to the jury that the matter charged as libellous is true, and was published with good motives and for justifiable ends, the party shall be acquitted; and the jury shall have the right to determine the law and the fact. 1850 (effective Jan. 1, 1851) Art. IV, § 42: No law shall ever be passed to restrain or abridge the liberty of speech or of the press; but every person may freely speak, write, and publish his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of such right. Art. VI, § 25: In all prosecutions for libels, the truth may be given in evidence to the jury; and if it shall appear to the jury that the matter charged as libellous is true, and was published with good motives and for justifiable ends, the party shall be acquitted. The jury shall have the right to determine the law and the fact. 1908 (effective Jan. 1, 1909) Art. I, § 4: Every person may freely speak, write and publish his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of such right; and no law shall be passed to restrain or abridge the liberty of speech or of the press. Art. I, § 18: In all prosecutions for libels the truth may be given in evidence to the jury; and, if it shall appear to the jury that the matter charged as libelous is true and was published with good motives and for justifiable ends, the accused shall be acquitted. 1963 (effective Jan. 1, 1964)(present) Art. I, § 5: Every person may freely speak, write, express and publish his views on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of such right; and no law shall be enacted to restrain or abridge the liberty of speech or of the press. Art. I, § 19: In all prosecutions for libels the truth may be given in evidence to the jury; and, if it appears to the jury that the matter charged as libelous is true and was published with good motives and for justifiable ends, the accused shall be acquitted. MINNESOTA 1857 (effective May 11, 1858) Art. I, § 3: The liberty of the press shall forever remain inviolate, and all persons may freely speak, write, and publish their sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of such right. 1974 (effective Nov. 5, 1974)(present) Same as 1857 provision. MISSISSIPPI 1817 (effective Dec. 10, 1817) Art. I, § 6: Every citizen may freely speak, write, and publish his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty. Art. I, § 7: No law shall ever be passed to curtail or restrain the liberty of speech or of the press. Art. I, § 8: In all prosecutions or indictments for libels, the truth may be given in evidence; and the jury shall have the right to determine the law and the facts, under the direction of the court. 1832 (effective Jan. 1, 1833) Art. I, § 6: Every citizen may freely speak, write, and publish his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty. Art. I, § 7: No law shall ever be passed to curtail or restrain the liberty of speech, or of the press. Art. I, § 8: In all prosecutions or indictments for libel, the truth may be given in evidence; and if it shall appear to the jury that the matter charged as libellous is true, and was published with good motives and for justifiable ends, the party shall be acquitted; and the jury shall have the right to determine the law and the facts. 1869 (effective Feb. 18, 1869) Art. I, § 4: The freedom of speech and of the press shall be held sacred, and in all indictments for libel the jury shall determine the law and the facts, under the direction of the court. 1890 (effective Nov. 1, 1890)(present) Art. III, § 13: The freedom of speech and of the press shall be held sacred, and in all prosecutions for libel the truth may be given in evidence, and the jury shall determine the law and the facts under the direction of the court; and if it shall appear to the jury that the matter charged as libelous is true, and was published with good motives and for justifiable ends, the party shall be acquitted. MISSOURI 1820 (effective Aug. 10, 1821) Art. XIII, § 16: That the free communication of thoughts and opinions is one of the invaluable rights of man, and that every person may freely speak, write, and print on any subject, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty; that in all prosecutions for libels the truth thereof may be given in evidence, and the jury may determine the law and the facts, under the direction of the court. 1865 (effective July 4, 1865) Art. I, § 27: That the free communication of thoughts and opinions is one of the invaluable rights of man, and that every person may freely speak, write, and print on any subject, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty; that in all prosecutions for libel, the truth thereof may be given in evidence, and the jury may determine the law and the facts, under the direction of the court. 1875 (effective Nov. 30, 1875) Art. II, § 14: That no law shall be passed impairing the freedom of speech; that every person shall be free to say, write, or publish whatever he will on any subject, being responsible for all abuse of that liberty; and in all suits and prosecutions for libel the truth thereof may be given in evidence, and the jury, under the direction of the court, shall determine the law and the fact. 1945 (effective Mar. 30, 1945)(present) Art. I, § 8: That no law shall be passed impairing the freedom of speech, no matter by what means communicated; that every person shall be free to say, write or publish, or otherwise communicate whatever he will on any subject, being responsible for all abuses of that liberty; and that in all suits and prosecutions for libel or slander the truth thereof may be given in evidence; and in suits and prosecutions for libel the jury, under the direction of the court, shall determine the law and the facts. MONTANA 1889 (effective Nov. 8, 1889) Art. III, § 10: No law shall be passed impairing the freedom of speech; every person shall be free to speak, write or publish whatever he will on any subject, being responsible for all abuse of that liberty; and that in all suits and prosecutions for libel, the truth thereof may be given in evidence; and the jury, under the direction of the court, shall determine the law and the facts. 1972 (effective July 1, 1972)(present) Art. II, § 7: No law shall be passed impairing the freedom of speech or expression. Every person shall be free to speak or publish whatever he will on any subject, being responsible for all abuse of that liberty. In all suits and prosecutions for libel or slander the truth thereof may be given in evidence; and the jury, under the direction of the court, shall determine the law and the facts. NEBRASKA 1866 (effective Mar. 1, 1867) Art. I, § 3: Every person may freely speak, write, and publish his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that right, and no laws shall be passed to restrain or abridge the liberty of speech or of the press. In all criminal prosecutions or indictments for libel the truth may be given in evidence; and if it shall appear to the jury that the matter charged as libellous be true, and was published with good motives and for justifiable ends, the party shall be acquitted; and the jury shall have the right to determine the law and the fact. 1875 (effective Nov. 1, 1875)(present) Art. I, § 5: Every person may freely speak, write, and publish on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty; and in all trials for libel, both civil and criminal, the truth, when published with good motives and for justifiable ends, shall be a sufficient defense. NEVADA 1864 (effective Oct. 31, 1864)(present) Art. I, § 9: Every citizen may freely speak, write, and publish his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that right; and no law shall be passed to restrain or abridge the liberty of speech or of the press. In all criminal prosecutions and civil actions for libels, the truth may be given in evidence to the jury; and if it shall appear to the jury that the matter charged as libellous is true, and was published with good motives and for justifiable ends, the party shall be acquitted or exonerated. NEW HAMPSHIRE 1776 (effective Jan. 5, 1776) There is no specific provision. 1784 (effective June 2, 1784) Art. I, § 22: The Liberty of the Press is essential to the security of freedom in a state; it ought, therefore, to be inviolably preserved. Art. I, § 30: The freedom of deliberation, speech, and debate, in either house of the legislature, is so essential to the rights of the people, that it cannot be the foundation of any action, complaint, or prosecution, in any other court or place whatsoever. Present (1784 as amended 1968) Art. I, § 22: Free speech and liberty of the press are essential to the security of freedom in a state: They ought, therefore, to be inviolably preserved. Art. I, § 30: Unchanged. NEW JERSEY 1776 (effective July 3, 1776) There is no specific provision. 1844 (effective Sept. 2, 1844) Art. I, § 5: Every person may freely speak, write, and publish his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that right. No law shall be passed to restrain or abridge the liberty of speech or of the press. In all prosecutions or indictments for libel, the truth may be given in evidence to the jury; and if it shall appear to the jury that the matter charged as libellous is true, and was published with good motives and for justifiable ends, the party shall be acquitted; and the jury shall have the right to determine the law and the fact. 1947 (effective Jan. 1, 1948)(present) Art. I, § 6: Every person may freely speak, write and publish his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that right. No law shall be passed to restrain or abridge the liberty of speech or of the press. In all prosecutions or indictments for libel, the truth may be given in evidence to the jury; and if it shall appear to the jury that the matter charged as libelous is true, and was published with good motives and for justifiable ends, the party shall be acquitted; and the jury shall have the right to determine the law and the fact. NEW MEXICO 1910 (effective Jan. 6, 1912)(present) Art. II, § 17: Every person may freely speak, write and publish his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that right; and no law shall be passed to restrain or abridge the liberty of speech or of the press. In all criminal prosecutions for libels, the truth may be given in evidence to the jury; and if it shall appear to the jury that the matter charged as libelous is true and was published with the good motives and for justifiable ends, the party shall be acquitted. NEW YORK 1777 (effective Apr. 20, 1777) There is no specific provision. 1822 (effective Dec. 31, 1822) Art. VII, § 8: Every citizen may freely speak, write, and publish his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that right; and no law shall be passed to restrain or abridge the liberty of speech, or of the press. In all prosecutions or indictments for libels, the truth may be given in evidence to the jury; and if it shall appear to the jury that the matter charged as libellous is true, and was published with good motives and for justifiable ends, the party shall be acquitted; and the jury shall have the right to determine the law and the fact. 1846 (effective Jan. 1, 1847) Art. I, § 8: Every citizen may freely speak, write, and publish his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that right; and no law shall be passed to restrain or abridge the liberty of speech or the press. In all criminal prosecutions or indictments for libels, the truth may be given in evidence to the jury; and if it shall appear to the jury that the matter charged as libellous is true, and was published with good motives and for justifiable ends, the party shall be acquitted; and the jury shall have the right to determine the law and the fact. 1895 (effective Jan. 1, 1895) Art. I, § 8: Every citizen may freely speak, write and publish his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that right; and no law shall be passed to restrain or abridge the liberty of speech or of the press. In all criminal prosecutions or indictments for libels, the truth may be given in evidence to the jury; and if it shall appear to the jury that the matter charged as libelous is true, and was published with the good motives and for justifiable ends, the party shall be acquitted; and the jury shall have the right to determine the law and the fact. 1938 (effective Jan. 1, 1939)(present) Same as 1895 provision. NORTH CAROLINA 1776 (effective Dec. 18, 1776) Declaration of Rights, XV: That the freedom of the press is one of the great bulwarks of liberty, and therefore ought never to be restrained. 1862 (effective May 20, 1862) Same as 1776 provision. 1868 (effective July 1, 1868) Art. I, § 20: The freedom of the press is one of the great bulwarks of liberty, and, therefore, ought never to be restrained, but every individual shall be held responsible for the abuse of the same. 1876 (effective Dec. 31, 1876) Art. I, § 20: The freedom of the press is one of the great bulwarks of liberty, and therefore ought never to be restrained, but every individual should be held responsible for the abuse of the same. 1970 (effective July 1, 1971)(present) Art. I, § 14: Freedom of speech and of the press are two of the great bulwarks of liberty and therefore shall never be restrained, but every person shall be held responsible for their abuse. NORTH DAKOTA 1889 (effective Nov. 2, 1889) Art. I, § 9: Every man may freely write, speak and publish his opinions on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that privilege. In all civil and criminal trials for libel the truth may be given in evidence, and shall be a sufficient defense when the matter is published with good motives and for justifiable ends; and the jury shall have the same power of giving a general verdict as in other cases; and in all indictments or informations for libels the jury shall have the right to determine the law and the facts under the direction of the court as in other cases. 1980 (effective 1980)(present) Art. I, § 4: Same as Art. I, § 9 (1889). OHIO 1802 (effective Mar. 1, 1803) Art. VIII, § 6: That the printing-presses shall be open and free to every citizen who wishes to examine the proceedings of any branch of government, or the conduct of any public officer; and no law shall ever restrain the right thereof. Every citizen has an indisputable right to speak, write, or print upon any subject as he thinks proper, being liable for the abuse of that liberty. In prosecutions for any publication respecting the official conduct of men in a public capacity, or where the matter published is proper for public information, the truth thereof may always be given in evidence; and in all indictments for libels, the jury shall have a right to determine the law and the facts, under the direction of the court, as in other cases. 1851 (effective Jan. 8, 1852)(present) Art. I, § 11: Every citizen may freely speak, write, and publish his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of the right; and no law shall be passed to restrain or abridge liberty of speech, or of the press. In all criminal prosecutions for libel, the truth may be given in evidence to the jury, and if it shall appear to the jury that the matter charged as libellous is true, and was published with good motives and for justifiable ends, the party shall be acquitted. OKLAHOMA 1907 (effective Nov. 16, 1907)(present) Art. II, § 22: Every person may freely speak, write, or publish his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that right; and no law shall be passed to restrain or abridge the liberty of speech or of the press. In all criminal prosecutions for libel, the truth of the matter alleged to be libelous may be given in evidence to the jury, and if it shall appear to the jury that the matter charged as libelous, be true and was written or published with good motives and for justifiable ends, the party shall be acquitted. OREGON 1859 (effective Feb. 14, 1859)(present) Art. I, § 8: No law shall be passed restraining the free expression of opinion, or restricting the right to speak, write, or print freely on any subject whatever, but every person shall be responsible for the abuse of this right. PENNSYLVANIA 1776 (effective Sept. 28, 1776) Declaration of Rights, XII: That the people have a right to freedom of speech, and of writing, and publishing their sentiments; therefore the freedom of the press ought not to be restrained. Plan or Frame of Government, § 35: The printing presses shall be free to every person who undertakes to examine the proceedings of the legislature, or any part of government. 1790 (effective Sept. 2, 1790) Art. IX, § 7: That the printing-press shall be free to every person who undertakes to examine the proceedings of the legislature, or any branch of government, and no law shall ever be made to restrain the right thereof. The free communication of thoughts and opinions is one of the invaluable rights of man; and every citizen may freely speak, write, and print on any subject, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty. In prosecutions for the publication of papers investigating the official conduct of officers or men in a public capacity, or where the matter published is proper for public information, the truth thereof may be given in evidence; and in all indictments for libels the jury shall have a right to determine the law and the facts, under the direction of the court, as in other cases. 1838 (effective Jan. 1, 1839) Art. IX, § 7: That the printing-press shall be free to every person who undertakes to examine the proceedings of the legislature or any branch of government; and no law shall ever be made to restrain the right thereof. The free communication of thoughts and opinions is one of the invaluable rights of man; and every citizen may freely speak, write, and print on any subject, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty. In prosecution for the publication of papers investigating the official conduct of officers, or men in a public capacity, or where the matter published is proper for public information, the truth thereof may be given in evidence; and in all indictments for libels the jury shall have a right to determine the law and the facts, under the direction of the court, as in other cases. 1873 (effective Jan. 1, 1874) Art. I, § 7: The printing-presses shall be free to every person who may undertake to examine the proceedings of the legislature or any branch of government, and no law shall ever be made to restrain the right thereof. The free communication of thoughts and opinions is one of the invaluable rights of man, and every citizen may freely speak, write, and print on any subject, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty. No conviction shall be had in any prosecution for the publication of papers relating to the official conduct of officers or men in public capacity, or to any other matter proper for public investigation or information, where the fact that such publication was not maliciously or negligently made shall be established to the satisfaction of the jury; and in all indictments for libels the jury shall have the right to determine the law and the facts, under the direction of the court, as in other cases. 1968 (effective Apr. 23, 1968) (present) Art. I, § 7: The printing press shall be free to every person who may undertake to examine the proceedings of the Legislature or any branch of government, and no law shall ever be made to restrain the right thereof. The free communication of thoughts and opinions is one of the invaluable rights of man, and every citizen may freely speak, write and print on any subject, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty. No conviction shall be had in any prosecution for the publication of papers relating to the official conduct of officers or men in public capacity, or to any other matter proper for public investigation or information, where the fact that such publication was not maliciously or negligently made shall be established to the satisfaction of the jury; and in all indictments for libels the jury shall have the right to determine the law and the facts, under the direction of the court, as in other cases. RHODE ISLAND 1842 (effective May 1843) Art. I, § 20: The liberty of the press being essential to the security of freedom in a State, any person may publish his sentiments on any subject, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty; and in all trials for libel, both civil and criminal, the truth, unless published from malicious motives, shall be sufficient defence to the person charged. 1986 (effective Dec. 4, 1986) (present) Art. I, § 20: The liberty of the press being essential to the security of freedom in a state, any person may publish sentiments on any subject, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty; and in all trials for libel, both civil and criminal, the truth, unless published from malicious motives, shall be sufficient defense to the person charged. SOUTH CAROLINA 1776 (effective Mar. 26, 1776) There is no specific provision. 1778 (effective Nov. 30, 1778) XLIII: That the liberty of the press be inviolably preserved. 1790 (effective June 3, 1790) Art. IX, § 6: The trial by jury, as heretofore used in this State, and the liberty of the press, shall be forever inviolably preserved. 1865 (effective Sept. 27, 1865) Art. IX, § 7: The trial by jury as heretofore used in this State, and the liberty of the press, shall be forever inviolably preserved. But the general assembly shall have power to determine the number of persons who shall constitute the jury in the inferior and district courts. 1868 (effective Apr. 16, 1868) Art. I, § 7: All persons may freely speak, write, and publish their sentiments on any subject, being responsible for the abuse of that right; and no laws shall be enacted to restrain or abridge the liberty of speech or of the press. Art. I, § 8: In prosecutions for the publication of papers investigating the official conduct of officers or men in public capacity, or when the matter published is proper for public information, the truth thereof may be given in evidence; and in all indictments for libel, the jury shall be the judges of the law and the facts. 1895 (effective Dec. 31, 1895) Art. I, § 4: The General Assembly shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof, or abridging the freedom of speech or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble and to petition the Government or any department thereof for redress of grievances. Art. I, § 21: In all indictments or prosecutions for libel, the truth of the alleged libel may be given in evidence, and the jury shall be the judges of the law and the facts. 1971 (effective May 13, 1971) (present) Art. I, § 2: Same as Art. 1, § 4 (1895). Art. I, § 16: In all indictments or prosecutions for libel, the truth of the alleged libel may be given in evidence, and the jury shall be the judges of the law and facts. SOUTH DAKOTA 1889 (effective Nov. 2, 1889) (present) Art. VI, § 5: Every person may freely speak, write and publish on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that right. In all trials for libel, both civil and criminal, the truth, when published, with good motives and for justifiable ends, shall be a sufficient defense. The jury shall have the right to determine the facts and the law under the direction of the court. TENNESSEE 1785 (Constitution of the State of Franklin) Declaration of Rights, § 15: That the freedom of the press is one of the greatest bulwarks of liberty, and therefore ought never to be restrained. 1796 (effective June 1, 1796) Art. XI, § 19: That the printing-press shall be free to every person who undertakes to examine the proceedings of the legislature, or of any branch or officer of government; and no law shall ever be made to restrain the right thereof. The free communication of thoughts and opinions is one of the invaluable rights of man; and every citizen may freely speak, write, and print on any subject, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty. But in prosecutions for the publication of papers investigating the official conduct of officers or men in public capacity, the truth thereof may be given in evidence; and in all indictments for libels, the jury shall have a right to determine the law and the facts, under the direction of the court, as in other cases. 1834 (effective Mar. 6, 1835) Art. I, § 19: That the printing-press shall be free to every person who undertakes to examine the proceedings of the legislature, or of any branch of office of government; and no law shall ever be made to restrain the right thereof. The free communication of thoughts and opinions is one of the invaluable rights of man, and every citizen may freely speak, write, and print on any subject, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty. But in prosecutions for the publication of papers investigating the official conduct of officers or men in public capacity, the truth thereof may be given in evidence; and in all indictments for libels, the jury shall have a right to determine the law and the facts, under the direction of the court, as in other criminal cases. 1870 (effective Mar. 26, 1870) (present) Art. I, § 19: That the printing-presses shall be free to every person to examine the proceedings of the legislature, or of any branch or officer of the government; and no law shall ever be made to restrain the right thereof. The free communication of thoughts and opinions is one of the invaluable rights of men, and every citizen may freely speak, write, and print on any subject, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty. But in prosecutions for the publication of papers investigating the official conduct of officers or men in public capacity, the truth thereof may be given in evidence; and in all indictments for libel, the jury shall have a right to determine the law and the facts, under the direction of the court, as in other criminal cases. TEXAS 1836 (Constitution of the Republic of Texas) Declaration of Rights, § 4: Every citizen shall be at liberty to speak, write, or publish his opinions on any subject, being responsible for the abuse of that privilege. No law shall ever be passed to curtail the liberty of speech or of the press; and in all prosecutions for libels the truth may be given in evidence, and the jury shall have the right to determine the law and fact, under the direction of the court. 1845 Art. I, § 5: Every citizen shall be at liberty to speak, write, or publish his opinions on any subject, being responsible for the abuse of that privilege; and no law shall ever be passed curtailing the liberty of speech or of the press. Art. I, § 6: In prosecutions for the publication of papers investigating the official conduct of officers, or men in a public capacity, or when the matter published is proper for public information, the truth thereof may be given in evidence; and, in all indictments for libels, the jury shall have the right to determine the law and the facts under the direction of the court, as in other cases. 1861 (same) 1866 Art. I, § 5: (same) Art. I, § 6: In prosecutions for the publication of papers investigating the official conduct of officers or men in a public capacity, or when the matter published is proper for public information, the truth thereof may be given in evidence; and, in all indictments for libels, the jury shall have the right to determine the law and the facts under the direction of the court, as in other cases. 1869 Art. I, § 5: (same) Art. I, § 6: In prosecutions for the publication of papers investigating the official conduct of officers or of men in a public capacity, or when the matter published is proper for public information, the truth thereof may be given in evidence; and, in all prosecutions for libels, the jury shall have the right to determine the law and the facts, under the direction of the court as in other cases. 1875 (present) Art. I, § 8: Every person shall be at liberty to speak, write, or publish his opinions on any subject, being responsible for the abuse of that privilege; and no law shall ever be passed curtailing the liberty of speech or of the press. In prosecutions for the publication of papers investigating the conduct of officers or men in public capacity, or when the matter published is proper for public information, the truth thereof may be given in evidence. And in all indictments for libels the jury shall have the right to determine the law and the facts under the direction of the court, as in other cases. UTAH 1845 (Constitution of the State of Deseret) Art. VIII, § 5: Every person may speak, write, and publish his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that right, and no law shall be passed to abridge the liberty of speech or of the press. 1895 (effective Jan. 4, 1896) (present) Art. I, § 15: No law shall be passed to abridge or restrain the freedom of speech or of the press. In all criminal prosecutions for libel the truth may be given in evidence to the jury; and if it shall appear to the jury that the matter charged as libelous is true, and was published with good motives, and for justifiable ends, the party shall be acquitted, and the jury shall have the right to determine the law and the fact. VERMONT 1777 (effective July 8, 1777) Ch. 1, § XIV: That the people have a right to freedom of speech, and of writing and publishing their sentiments; therefore, the freedom of the press ought not be restrained. Ch. 2, § XXXII: The printing presses shall be free to every person who undertakes to examine the proceedings of the legislature, or any part of government. 1786 (effective July 4, 1786) Ch. 1, § XV: That the people have a right of freedom of speech and of writing and publishing their sentiments, concerning the transactions of governmentand therefore the freedom of the press ought not to be restrained. Ch. 1, § XVI: The freedom of deliberation, speech, and debate, in the legislature, is so essential to the rights of the people, that it cannot be the foundation of any accusation or prosecution, action or complaint, in any other court or place whatsoever. 1796 (effective Nov. 2, 1796) (present) Ch. 1, § XIII: That the people have a right to freedom of speech, and of writing and publishing their sentiments, concerning the transactions of government, and therefore the freedom of the press ought not to be restrained. Ch. 1, § XIV: The freedom of deliberation, speech, and debate, in the legislature, is so essential to the rights of the people, that it cannot be the foundation of any accusation, or prosecution, action, or complaint in any other court or place whatsoever. VIRGINIA 1776 (effective June 12, 1776) Bill of Rights, § 12: That the freedom of the press is one of the great bulwarks of liberty, and can never be restrained but by despotic governments. 1830 (effective July 1, 1830) Art. I: Adopts the Bill of Rights from the 1776 constitution. 1851 (effective Jan. 12, 1852) Bill of Rights, § XII: Same as Bill of Rights, § 12 (1776). 1864 (effective 1864) Same as the 1851 provision. 1870 (effective Jan. 26, 1870) Art. I, § 14: That the freedom of the press is one of the great bulwarks of liberty, and can never be restrained but by despotic governments; and any citizen may speak, write, and publish his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty. 1902 (effective July 10, 1902) Art. I, § 12: That the freedom of the press is one of the great bulwarks of liberty, and can never be restrained but by despotic governments; and any citizen may freely speak, write and publish his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that right. 1970 (effective July 1, 1971) (present) Art. I, § 12: That the freedom of speech and of the press are among the great bulwarks of liberty, and can never be restrained except by despotic governments; that any citizen may freely speak, write, and publish his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that right; that the General Assembly shall not pass any law abridging the freedom of speech or of the press, nor the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for the redress of grievances. WASHINGTON 1889 (effective Nov. 11, 1889) (present) Art. I, § 5: Every person may freely speak, write and publish on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that right. WEST VIRGINIA 1861 (effective June 20, 1863) Art. II, § 4: No law abridging freedom of speech or of the press shall be passed; but the legislature may provide for the restraint and punishment of the publishing and vending of obscene books, papers, and pictures, and of libel and defamation of character, and for the recovery, in civil actions, by the aggrieved party, of suitable damages for such libel or defamation. Attempts to justify and uphold an armed invasion of the State, or an organized insurrection therein, during the continuance of such invasion or insurrection, by publicly speaking, writing, or printing, or by publishing or circulating such writing or printing, may be, by law, declared a misdemeanor, and punished accordingly. Art. II, § 5: In prosecutions and civil suits for libel the truth may be given in evidence; and if it shall appear to the jury that the matter charged as libellous is true, and was published with good motives and for justifiable ends, the verdict shall be for the defendant. 1872 (effective 1872) (present) Art. III, § 7: No law abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press, shall be passed; but the Legislature may by suitable penalties, restrain the publication or sale of obscene books, papers or pictures, and provide for the punishment of libel, and defamation of character, and for the recovery in civil actions, by the aggrieved party, of suitable damages for such libel, or defamation. Art. III, § 8: In prosecutions, and civil suits for libel, the truth may be given in evidence; and if it shall appear to the jury that the matter charged as libellous, is true, and was published with good motives, and for justifiable ends, the verdict shall be for the defendant. WISCONSIN 1848 (effective May 29, 1848) (present) Art. I, § 3: Every person may freely speak, write and publish his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that right, and no laws shall be passed to restrain or abridge the liberty of speech, or of the press. In all criminal prosecutions, or indictments for libel, the truth may be given in evidence, and if it shall appear to the jury, that the matter charged as libelous be true, and was published with good motives and for justifiable ends, the party shall be acquitted; and the jury shall have the right to determine the law and the fact. WYOMING 1889 (effective July 10, 1890) (present) Art. I, § 20: Every person may freely speak, write and publish on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that right; and in trials for libel, both civil and criminal, the truth, when published with good intent and justifiable ends, shall be a sufficient defense, the jury having the right to determine the facts and the law, under direction of the court.  Constitutions of the original thirteen states that were in effect prior to the Constitution of the United States of America.  Constitutions of states, not among the original thirteen states, that existed prior to the State's admission to the United States of America.