Ban on protests in front of properties 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 invoice Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis signed Monday.

The laws makes it a second-degree misdemeanor to protest in a fashion that's 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, nonetheless.

The governor mentioned the brand new law will prevent 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 seen with the angry crowds in front of the houses of Supreme Court justices, is inappropriate,” DeSantis stated in an e-mail to news businesses. “This invoice will provide safety to those living in residential communities and I am glad to sign it into law.”

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

The regulation is scheduled to take impact Oct. 1.