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

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — Anybody who protests in entrance of a personal 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 way that's aimed at deliberately harassing or disturbing someone of their house. Violators face 60 days in jail and fines of up to $500.

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

The governor said the brand new legislation will prevent protests in Florida like those waged by abortion rights protesters in front of U.S. Supreme Courtroom justices’ homes in Virginia.

“Sending unruly mobs to private residences, like we've got seen with the indignant crowds in front of the properties of Supreme Court justices, is inappropriate,” DeSantis stated in an electronic mail to information companies. “This invoice will provide protection to these dwelling in residential communities and I'm glad to signal it into law.”

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

The regulation is scheduled to take effect Oct. 1.