In free speech case, appeals court rules for tour guides who challenged city requirement

A federal appeals court has ruled in favor of tour guides in the nation's capital who challenged city rules that require guides to pay the government $200 and to pass a 100-question multiple-choice exam.

In Washington, operating as a paid, unlicensed tour guide is punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a $300 fine.

According to the city, the licensing requirement ensures that prospective guides are who they say they are and have at least a minimal grasp of the city's history and geography.

In a 3-0 decision, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit said the city failed to present any evidence the problems it sought to stop actually exist.