The ACLU of Texas is pleased with today's decision by the Williamson County Commissioner's Court to amend its controversial dress code rule. This rule, adopted in October 2007, required all attendees of Court meetings to wear "proper attire," defined as "attire suitable for professional or business engagements."
Rebecca Bernhardt, Director of Policy Development at the ACLU of Texas, testified before the Court on January 15, 2008, asking the Court to reconsider the language regarding attire as well as the prohibition on "insulting" speech.
The ACLU of Texas had expressed concern that the rule regulating attire would deter members of the public from attending or participating in meetings.
The ACLU of Texas continues to be alarmed about the Commissioner's Court's ban on "insulting" language, because the definition of "insulting" speech is vague. The ban could be used to silence an individual making First Amendment protected comments before the Court.
