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 laws makes it a second-degree misdemeanor to protest in a manner that's aimed at deliberately harassing or disturbing somebody of their dwelling. 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, nevertheless.

The governor stated the new regulation will prevent protests in Florida like those waged by abortion rights protesters in front of U.S. Supreme Courtroom justices’ homes in Virginia.

“Sending unruly mobs to non-public residences, like we now have seen with the angry crowds in entrance of the homes of Supreme Court docket justices, is inappropriate,” DeSantis stated in an e mail to news agencies. “This invoice will present protection to those living in residential communities and I am glad to signal it into regulation.”

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

The regulation is scheduled to take effect Oct. 1.