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

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — Anybody who protests in front of a personal residence in Florida can face jail time and fines beneath a bill Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis signed Monday.

The legislation makes it a second-degree misdemeanor to protest in a way that's aimed toward intentionally harassing or disturbing somebody of their home. Violators face 60 days in jail and fines of as much as $500.

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

The governor said the brand new legislation will prevent protests in Florida like those waged by abortion rights protesters in entrance of U.S. Supreme Court docket justices’ houses in Virginia.

“Sending unruly mobs to private residences, like we have now seen with the indignant crowds in front of the houses of Supreme Court docket justices, is inappropriate,” DeSantis said in an email to information businesses. “This invoice will present protection to those living in residential communities and I am glad to sign it into law.”

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

The regulation is scheduled to take effect Oct. 1.