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

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — Anybody who protests in front 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's geared toward intentionally harassing or disturbing somebody in 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, nevertheless.

The governor stated the brand new regulation will forestall 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 private residences, like we have now seen with the indignant crowds in front of the properties of Supreme Court justices, is inappropriate,” DeSantis said in an e mail to news companies. “This bill 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 Modification rights to free speech.

The law is scheduled to take effect Oct. 1.