A new law against hate speech came into force in Scotland on Monday, praised by some but criticized by others who say its sweeping provisions could criminalize religious views or tasteless jokes. The Hate Crime and Public Order (Scotland) Act makes it an offense to stir up hatred with threatening or abusive behavior on the basis of characteristics including age, disability, religion, sexual orientation and transgender identity. Racial hatred was already banned under a law dating from 1986. The maximum sentence is seven years in prison. Critics argue that the law will have a chilling effect on free speech, making people afraid to express their views. Joining us today on AirTalk to discuss the new law and criticisms of it is Eugene Volokh, professor of law at UCLA where he teaches First Amendment law.