In 'chilling' decision, UF professors have been barred from testifying against Florida

[Yo_Mama_Been_Loggin]

In a decision that could have far-reaching free speech implications for faculty at universities and colleges across Florida, the University of Florida has refused to allow three political science professors to continue to serve as expert witnesses in a case that challenges a new state law that restricts voting access.

Political Science Professors Daniel Smith, Michael McDonald and Sharon Austin, two of whom have all previously served as expert witnesses in cases against state, were told by emails earlier this month that their requests to serve as experts would now be rejected. They were seeking permission to serve as experts in the case challenging Senate Bill 90, passed by Florida’s GOP-controlled Legislature in the wake of the 2020 election.

“Outside activities that may pose a conflict of interest to the executive branch of the State of Florida create a conflict for the University of Florida,’’ wrote David Richardson, dean of UF’s college of arts and sciences in response to Smith’s request.

Smith is the chair of UF’s political science department; McDonald is a national expert on elections and Austin studies African American political behavior.

https://www.yahoo.com/news/chilling-decision-uf-professors-barred-180002873.html

[NullTuples]

1. wrote David Richardson, dean of UF's college of arts and sciences

In other words, "We don't want the blowback from the governor, I could get fired".

I hope they take this decision to court.