Bill > SB57

This bill, known as the "Freedom of Speech and Belief Act," aims to protect individuals from discrimination in essential services based on their exercise of constitutional rights. The legislation specifically prohibits financial institutions (with over $1 billion in assets) and utility service providers from denying or terminating services to individuals based on their "social credit score" or their exercise of rights protected by the first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution. The bill defines "social credit score" broadly, including factors such as a person's speech, association, religious exercise, firearm ownership, environmental policy stances, diversity practices, and business associations. Essential services covered include financial services and utility services like electricity, water, sewer, natural gas, and broadband. If a provider violates these provisions, individuals can bring a private legal action to recover damages (up to $50,000 or actual damages, whichever is greater), with potential treble damages if the violation is found to be willful. The bill's legislative findings emphasize the importance of preserving constitutional freedoms and ensuring citizens can access critical services without being penalized for exercising their rights. The goal is to prevent what the bill describes as potential deprivation of an individual's ability to carry out daily life and pursue happiness due to service discrimination.

Justice

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/69635