Two-Tier Speech System Burdens Public Discourse

This provision creates undefined "higher standards" for journalists, academics, politicians, and public commentators—precisely those engaged in democratic debate—while ordinary citizens face lower verification burdens for identical statements. The terms "necessary due diligence" and "higher standard" are undefined, making it impossible for speakers to know what conduct satisfies the requirement. Combined with criminal penalties under 75, this creates a chilling effect on investigative journalism and scholarly commentary, as public discourse participants face greater legal jeopardy than private citizens for the same speech. While defenses exist, speakers must risk liability first and defend later, fundamentally disadvantaging those most important to democratic discourse.