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

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — Anybody who protests in entrance of a private residence in Florida can face jail time and fines underneath 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 house. Violators face 60 days in jail and fines of up to $500.

Protesters can only be arrested after ignoring regulation enforcement’s orders to disperse, however.

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

“Sending unruly mobs to personal residences, like we've seen with the indignant crowds in entrance of the properties of Supreme Courtroom justices, is inappropriate,” DeSantis said in an e mail to news businesses. “This bill 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 people’s First Amendment rights to free speech.

The law is scheduled to take impact Oct. 1.