Gov. Asa Hutchinson vetoed SB79, a bill that would have banned street photography in an attempt to “protect the names, voices, signatures, photographs, and likenesses of the citizens of the state from exploration and unauthorized commercial use without the citizen’s consent”

The bill was authored by Sen. Jon Woods and Rep. Greg Leding. After the bill was passed by the legislature, photographers in Arkansas and else where reacted saying the language of SB79 could require anyone who uses a picture for any purpose could be construed as “commercial” and would require express written permission from every individual in the picture.

After reviewing the bill, Gov. Hutchinson agreed that the bill was too broadly written. He said:

“In its current form, the bill unnecessarily restricts free expression and thus could have a chilling effect on freedom of speech and freedom of press. In addition, SB79 exempts certain types of noncommercial speech while failing to exempt other forms of noncommercial speech. the absence of these exemptions could result in unnecessary litigation and suppress Arkansans who engage in artistic expression”

So photographers are triumphant and can enjoy their street photography for the time being.

Be inspired, shoot, and share.

(First reported by The Arkansas Times)