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

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

The legislation makes it a second-degree misdemeanor to protest in a fashion that is aimed toward intentionally harassing or disturbing somebody of their house. Violators face 60 days in jail and fines of up to $500.

Protesters can solely be arrested after ignoring law enforcement’s orders to disperse, nonetheless.

The governor mentioned the brand new law will forestall protests in Florida like those waged by abortion rights protesters in front of U.S. Supreme Court docket justices’ homes in Virginia.

“Sending unruly mobs to personal residences, like we have seen with the angry crowds in entrance of the homes of Supreme Courtroom justices, is inappropriate,” DeSantis stated in an e mail to news companies. “This bill will provide safety to these living in residential communities and I'm glad to signal it into regulation.”

Some Democrats opposed the bill, arguing it infringes on people’s First Amendment rights to free speech.

The legislation is scheduled to take effect Oct. 1.