Maryland to pay $65K, create new social media policy in ACLU suit for governor Facebook censorship

The American Civil Liberties Union says the state of Maryland must pay $65,000 and create a new social media policy after the organization filed a lawsuit accusing Governor Larry Hogan of censoring constituents by blocking them on his official Facebook page and deleting their comments.

As per the lawsuit, the new social media policy will oversee the governor's page and create a separate Facebook page where constituents can raise issues and set up an appeal process if they feel their comments have been improperly deleted.

"We are pleased that the ACLU has decided to drop this frivolous and politically motivated lawsuit and reach a settlement with the state," Gov. Hogan's Office said in statement. "Ultimately, it was much better for Maryland taxpayers to resolve this, than to continue wasting everyone's time and resources in court."

The lawsuit was filed on behalf of four people who claimed their First Amendment rights were violated. The lawsuit was one of several around the country accusing high-profile elected officials, including President Donald Trump, where constituents say they were blocked on social media.

The ACLU says the settlement must be fully implemented within 14 days.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.