Florida lawmakers send bill banning protests at residential dwellings to governor’s desk

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Protesting outside of someone’s home would become illegal under legislation sent to Gov. Ron DeSantis’ desk Wednesday afternoon.

It comes after Florida lawmakers made it illegal to block streets as a form of protest last year.

STORY: Democrats propose pre-birth child support, vasectomy restrictions in effort to combat abortion ban

Now, they’re looking to prevent protesters from showing up on your front lawn … and theirs too, for that matter.

“We should protect those private residences of individuals who have lives, who have children and who have families,” said Rep. Ralph Massullo (R-Beverly Hills).

Maria Garcia with the Jacksonville Community Action Committee argued when a protest springs up in front of someone’s home, there’s generally a compelling interest.

“That means that, there is a situation that there is really a demand for accountability around. So that means if you’re taking it directly to someone’s house, that means it’s serious,” said Garcia.

Black legislators also expressed concerns on the floor Wednesday that the law could be selectively enforced.

“Do disparities not exist? Disparities when the law requires discretion,” said Rep. Christopher Benjamin (D-Miami Gardens).

But Republicans pointed out protesters would have to be issued a warning first.

STORY: Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis tells students wearing masks in Tampa to ‘please take those off’

“If you leave after you get that warning, then you’re fine,” said Rep. Mike Beltran (R-Valrico).

For Garcia, the legislation is representative of a continued effort to crack down on free speech.

“This is the second year in a row that for some reason, protesting has been... front and center on Gov DeSantis’ mind, and it doesn’t seem like any of the reasons behind the protests are being talked about, it’s just reaction to the protesting,” said Garcia.

The bill cleared the Florida House with 76 votes in favor and 41 against, mostly down party lines.

It now heads to the governor’s desk.

©2022 Cox Media Group