ShareTrails | RELEASE – Court Grants Preliminary Injunction in Favor of BlueRibbon Coalition to Protect Filming on Public Lands

POCATALLO, ID – JUNE 25, 2024 –BlueRibbon Coalition, a leading advocate for public access to outdoor recreation on public lands, recently secured a preliminary injunction, stopping the Federal Government from enforcing its “commercial filming” permit-and-fee scheme against BlueRibbon and its members.  This ruling, issued by Chief Judge Nye in the District of Idaho, marks a significant win for the First Amendment, and free speech rights on our public lands.

BlueRibbon Coalition has long been at the forefront of defending the rights of individuals and groups to freely enjoy and document their experiences on public lands. The injunction acknowledges the careful balance the government must strike when trying to implement policies that restrict basic fundamental rights.

“The decision to grant this injunction is a victory for BlueRibbon Coalition and its members. Government restrictions on speech need to be narrowly tailored and adjusted to keep up with the times—especially in the age of social media,” said Ben Burr, Executive Director of BlueRibbon Coalition. “This ruling reinforces that the First Amendment protects our right to film and share our outdoor adventures without undue government interference.”

The preliminary injunction halts the enforcement of this federal permit-and-fee scheme against BlueRibbon Coalition while the case proceeds, allowing BlueRibbon and its members to continue their mission of promoting responsible outdoor recreation and adventure on public lands. This case highlights the necessity of safeguarding constitutional freedoms against restrictive regulations that could stifle public engagement and awareness.

BlueRibbon Coalition extends its gratitude to its legal team at Jones Day, supporters, and the community who have rallied behind this cause, and they remain committed to fighting for the rights of all individuals to access and enjoy public lands freely.

Read the Preliminary Injunction decision here: