Free Speech Update

From Wisconsin Right to Life

Wisconsin Right to Life v. Federal Election Commission to Have Hearing February 17 in District of Columbia District Court

Court Recognizes Need to Expedite Case

“Wisconsin Right to Life is pleased that the District of Columbia District Court responded so quickly to our motion for an expedited resolution of Wisconsin Right to Life v. Federal Election Commission,” stated Barbara Lyons, Executive Director of Wisconsin Right to Life. “The District Court will hold a status conference hearing on Friday, February 17 at 3:30pm. The Federal Election Commission is likely to oppose the manner in which Wisconsin Right to Life has asked that the case be resolved.”

On January 17, the U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments in WRTL v. FEC, a case with national significance. Wisconsin Right to Life is asking for a grassroots lobbying exception to the McCain-Feingold campaign finance reform law.

On January 23, the Supreme Court removed a conceptual obstacle and remanded the case back to the District Court to consider the merits of the case. On January 24, Wisconsin Right to Life asked the District Court to reinstate summary judgment motions and expedite action on the case.

“Because 2006 is an election year and every state faces primary blackout periods, it is important that the court reach an expedited conclusion,” continued Lyons. “Since the case has been fully briefed, we asked that each side be permitted ten days to file supplement briefs so that the court can act quickly on this important case.”

An expedited calendar is good news for free speech advocates.