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

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — Anyone who protests in front of a personal residence in Florida can face jail time and fines under a invoice Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis signed Monday.

The laws makes it a second-degree misdemeanor to protest in a fashion that is aimed toward intentionally harassing or disturbing someone in their dwelling. 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 stated the brand new law will stop protests in Florida like these waged by abortion rights protesters in front of U.S. Supreme Courtroom justices’ homes in Virginia.

“Sending unruly mobs to personal residences, like we have seen with the offended crowds in entrance of the homes of Supreme Court justices, is inappropriate,” DeSantis said in an e mail to information businesses. “This invoice will present protection to these dwelling in residential communities and I am glad to sign it into law.”

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

The law is scheduled to take impact Oct. 1.