Anti-gun organizers challenge Georgia protest policy

ATLANTA (AP) – Organizers of an anti-gun violence protest have filed a federal lawsuit questioning Georgia’s policy requiring that events held at a plaza across from the statehouse be approved by a top elected official.

The policy requires that weekend or after-hours events on Capitol grounds be approved by one of Georgia’s seven constitutional officers. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution says the lawsuit claims the policy violates the First Amendment by blocking a planned March 24 rally.

The lawsuit comes weeks after officials cut power to a gun control rally at the Capitol, saying organizers lacked proper permits.

State Property Officer Steve Stancil said the group’s bid had not been denied. Stancil said they were only asked to follow the same guidelines as other groups, including arranging for portable bathrooms and paying security fees.

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Information from: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, http://www.ajc.com