Ban on protests in front 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 beneath a invoice Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis signed Monday.

The legislation makes it a second-degree misdemeanor to protest in a fashion that is aimed toward intentionally harassing or disturbing someone of their home. Violators face 60 days in jail and fines of up to $500.

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

The governor said the brand new law will forestall protests in Florida like those waged by abortion rights protesters in front of U.S. Supreme Court docket justices’ homes in Virginia.

“Sending unruly mobs to private residences, like we have seen with the offended crowds in front of the homes of Supreme Courtroom justices, is inappropriate,” DeSantis mentioned in an e-mail to information businesses. “This bill will present safety to those living in residential communities and I'm glad to sign it into legislation.”

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

The legislation is scheduled to take impact Oct. 1.