Ban on protests in entrance of properties signed by Gov. DeSantis

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — Anyone who protests in entrance of a non-public residence in Florida can face jail time and fines under a invoice Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis signed Monday.

The legislation makes it a second-degree misdemeanor to protest in a fashion that is geared toward deliberately harassing or disturbing someone in their house. Violators face 60 days in jail and fines of as much as $500.

Protesters can only be arrested after ignoring legislation enforcement’s orders to disperse, however.

The governor mentioned the brand new law will forestall protests in Florida like these waged by abortion rights protesters in entrance of U.S. Supreme Courtroom justices’ properties in Virginia.

“Sending unruly mobs to private residences, like now we have seen with the angry crowds in front of the houses of Supreme Courtroom justices, is inappropriate,” DeSantis mentioned in an e-mail to news agencies. “This bill will provide protection to these residing in residential communities and I am glad to sign it into regulation.”

Some Democrats opposed the invoice, arguing it infringes on individuals’s First Modification rights to free speech.

The regulation is scheduled to take effect Oct. 1.