Ban on protests in entrance 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 below a invoice Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis signed Monday.

The laws makes it a second-degree misdemeanor to protest in a manner that is geared toward deliberately harassing or disturbing someone of their house. Violators face 60 days in jail and fines of as much as $500.

Protesters can solely be arrested after ignoring regulation enforcement’s orders to disperse, nonetheless.

The governor mentioned the brand new law will prevent protests in Florida like these waged by abortion rights protesters in entrance of U.S. Supreme Courtroom justices’ houses in Virginia.

“Sending unruly mobs to private residences, like we've seen with the angry crowds in entrance of the houses of Supreme Courtroom justices, is inappropriate,” DeSantis said in an e-mail to information agencies. “This invoice will present protection to those dwelling in residential communities and I'm glad to sign it into regulation.”

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

The legislation is scheduled to take effect Oct. 1.