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

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

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

Protesters can solely be arrested after ignoring legislation enforcement’s orders to disperse, however.

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

“Sending unruly mobs to private residences, like we've got seen with the offended crowds in entrance of the properties of Supreme Courtroom justices, is inappropriate,” DeSantis stated in an email to information businesses. “This bill will provide safety to those living in residential communities and I'm glad to sign it into legislation.”

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

The legislation is scheduled to take impact Oct. 1.