Ban on protests in front of homes 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 under a bill Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis signed Monday.

The legislation makes it a second-degree misdemeanor to protest in a fashion that's geared toward deliberately harassing or disturbing somebody 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 stated the brand new legislation will forestall protests in Florida like those waged by abortion rights protesters in front of U.S. Supreme Court justices’ houses in Virginia.

“Sending unruly mobs to non-public residences, like we have seen with the offended crowds in entrance of the homes of Supreme Court justices, is inappropriate,” DeSantis mentioned in an e mail to information companies. “This bill will provide safety to those dwelling in residential communities and I am glad to sign it into legislation.”

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

The regulation is scheduled to take effect Oct. 1.