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

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — Anyone who protests in front 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 manner that is geared toward deliberately harassing or disturbing someone of their home. Violators face 60 days in jail and fines of as much as $500.

Protesters can solely be arrested after ignoring legislation enforcement’s orders to disperse, nevertheless.

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

“Sending unruly mobs to private residences, like we've seen with the angry crowds in entrance of the properties of Supreme Courtroom justices, is inappropriate,” DeSantis stated in an electronic mail to information companies. “This bill will provide protection to those dwelling 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 law is scheduled to take impact Oct. 1.