Ban on protests in front of properties signed by Gov. DeSantis

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — Anybody who protests in entrance of a private 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 fashion that is geared toward intentionally harassing or disturbing someone 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, however.

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

“Sending unruly mobs to non-public residences, like we've got seen with the indignant crowds in front of the properties of Supreme Court docket justices, is inappropriate,” DeSantis mentioned in an electronic mail to news companies. “This invoice will present protection to these dwelling in residential communities and I am glad to signal it into legislation.”

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

The legislation is scheduled to take effect Oct. 1.