TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — Anyone who protests outside a private residence in Florida could face jail time and fines under a bill Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis signed into law Monday.
The legislation makes it a second degree offense to demonstrate in a manner intended to intentionally harass or disturb someone in their home. Violators risk 60 days in jail and fines of up to $500.
However, protesters can only be arrested after they ignore orders from law enforcement to disperse.
Governor says new law will prevent protests in Florida like those led by abortion rights protesters outside the homes of the Justices of the United States Supreme Court in Virginia.
“Sending unruly mobs into private residences, as we have seen with the angry mobs outside the homes of Supreme Court Justices, is inappropriate,” DeSantis said in an email to news agencies. “This bill will provide protection for people living in residential communities and I am happy to sign it.”
Some Democrats have opposed the bill, arguing that it violates First Amendment rights to free speech.
The law is expected to come into force on October 1.
