Gov. Asa Hutchinson has vetoed a publicity rights bill backed by the family of Arkansas football legend Frank Broyles. Spokesman J.R. Davis said it was his first veto of the session.
The bill sailed through both chambers earlier this month with only six representatives and three senators voting against it. Proponents, such as the National Football League Players Association, say it will prevent businesses from using a person's name or likeness to sell goods.
Broyles' family has said they want to protect his rights after his death.
The Motion Picture Association of America has opposed the bill. An association lobbyist said likenesses are already protected and that the bill is too broad and would stifle free speech.
In a written statement, the governor 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 the 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.
