LAWSUIT: We’re suing Michigan State University for punishing an elected trustee who refused to sign a speech code that restricts criticism of university leadership. Michael Balow criticized MSU’s handling of the Larry Nassar sexual abuse scandal and its withholding of documents related to a $100 million athletics investment. The board chair accused Michael and other trustees of “undermining the president” and MSU’s administration. The board then revised its ethics code, seen below, to require trustees to “uphold the university’s reputation” and support majority decisions. When Michael refused to sign, MSU used the code to exclude him from university events and revoke his credentials, limiting his ability to carry out his duties. Think about that. Elected officials tasked with overseeing a public university can be punished for questioning its leadership. And the very people they're supposed to hold accountable get to decide what criticism is permissible. Trustees are supposed to provide independent oversight, not rubber-stamp university decisions. The First Amendment protects their right to dissent, even when the board majority doesn't like what they have to say.