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A new Texas Law that imposes broad restrictions on protests at funerals is likely to be challenged as unconstitutional, particularly in light of a recent, if unpopular, U.S. Supreme Court decision. "The Texas Legislature has simply run roughshod over federal and state law and has essentially invited extremists to establish a rationale for litigation," says David Furlow of the Houston office of Thompson & Knight. The Texas law, HB718, prohibits protests within 1,000 feet of a funeral for three hours before and after the scheduled service. The bill's sponsor made it clear the law targets members of the controversial Westboro Baptist Church, who frequently picket at military funerals based on their religious beliefs. "The judiciary has been clear that even hurtful speech is protected speech. I fear that legislators chose an expensive chainsaw when a scalpel would have adequately protected the dignity of funeral services in Texas," says Furlow. For more information, contact Barry Pound at 800-559-4534 or barry@androvett.com.