Central Hudson Test

The Central Hudson Test is a legal framework used in the United States to evaluate the regulation of commercial speech, such as advertisements. It involves four key questions: First, is the speech about lawful activity and not misleading? Second, does the government have a substantial interest in regulating this speech? Third, is the regulation directly related to that interest? Lastly, is the restriction more extensive than necessary to serve that interest? If a regulation fails any part of this test, it may be deemed unconstitutional. This test helps balance free speech and government interests.