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

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — Anyone who protests in entrance of a personal 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 way that's aimed at intentionally harassing or disturbing somebody in their dwelling. Violators face 60 days in jail and fines of up to $500.

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

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

“Sending unruly mobs to private residences, like now we have seen with the angry crowds in front of the houses of Supreme Court docket justices, is inappropriate,” DeSantis mentioned in an e mail to news businesses. “This invoice will present safety to those residing in residential communities and I am glad to signal it into regulation.”

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

The law is scheduled to take impact Oct. 1.