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

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — Anybody who protests in front of a private residence in Florida can face jail time and fines below 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 deliberately harassing or disturbing someone of their residence. Violators face 60 days in jail and fines of up to $500.

Protesters can only be arrested after ignoring regulation enforcement’s orders to disperse, nonetheless.

The governor stated the brand new regulation will stop protests in Florida like those waged by abortion rights protesters in entrance of U.S. Supreme Court justices’ houses in Virginia.

“Sending unruly mobs to non-public residences, like we have seen with the indignant crowds in entrance of the homes of Supreme Courtroom justices, is inappropriate,” DeSantis stated in an email to information companies. “This invoice will provide protection to those dwelling in residential communities and I'm glad to sign it into law.”

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

The legislation is scheduled to take effect Oct. 1.