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

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — Anyone who protests in entrance of a non-public 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 is aimed at intentionally harassing or disturbing somebody of their home. Violators face 60 days in jail and fines of as much as $500.

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

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

“Sending unruly mobs to personal residences, like we've got seen with the angry crowds in front of the houses of Supreme Courtroom justices, is inappropriate,” DeSantis mentioned in an email to news businesses. “This invoice will provide safety to these living in residential communities and I'm glad to sign it into legislation.”

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

The legislation is scheduled to take effect Oct. 1.