Registrants will receive a link to watch the recording online as many times as they would like. However, this recording link may expire three months from the date of registration. We cannot guarantee it will be available after those three months.

General Information

• Cost: $35.00
• Recording Duration: 104 Minutes
• Broadcast Date: July 16, 2024
• Credits Available for Self-Reporting: 1.5 CML

Webinar Overview

Washington local governments have been experiencing so-called “First Amendment audits,” where private individuals unexpectedly arrive at an agency office building and begin recording their interaction with officials and staff. The intent of these “audits” is to test how the agency responds to the asserted First Amendment rights of the auditor, which can be challenging to deal with appropriately in the moment. This webinar, offered in partnership with Washington Cities Insurance Authority (WCIA), will prepare local government staff and officials on how to best address First Amendment auditors when they arrive at your agency’s front counter or your public meeting. It will cover the auditors’ legal rights, control measures local governments can implement, and de-escalation techniques staff can utilize if the situation becomes contentious. 

Educational Objectives

This webinar’s goal is to provide attendees with a better understanding of First Amendment auditors’ legal rights and appropriate responses local governments can take when faced with First Amendment audits. The main learning objectives are to:

• Help local governments recognize First Amendment auditors, understand their motivation, and anticipate where the audits may occur. 
• Explain the laws applicable to First Amendment audit situations, including the legality of recording videos in public spaces and distinguishing protected speech from prohibited speech or actions. 
• Identify best practices to prepare for First Amendment auditors, including setting agency policies and educating staff and officials. 
• Provide strategies for interacting with auditors to avoid escalation, de-escalate contentious situations, and ensure staff safety. 

Presenters

• Janelle Tarasewicz, Principal Consultant for Aperture EQ.
• Harry Boesche, Legal Consultant, MRSC.
• Flannary Collins, Managing Attorney, MRSC (Moderator).