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

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

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

Protesters can only be arrested after ignoring regulation enforcement’s orders to disperse, however.

The governor mentioned the brand new law will forestall protests in Florida like these waged by abortion rights protesters in entrance of U.S. Supreme Court docket justices’ properties in Virginia.

“Sending unruly mobs to personal residences, like we've got seen with the indignant crowds in entrance of the properties of Supreme Court docket justices, is inappropriate,” DeSantis said in an electronic mail to news businesses. “This bill will present safety to those dwelling in residential communities and I am glad to signal it into law.”

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

The law is scheduled to take effect Oct. 1.