The legislation is receiving strong support from GOP Governor Ron DeSantis, who is expected to sign it later this week.
What We Know:
- The bill was passed by the Florida Senate on Thursday in the wake of Black Lives Matter protests last summer. The bill intends to increase criminal penalties for assaulting law enforcement officials while engaging in a “riot” and defacing public property during riots. The legislation would also penalize local governments that interfere with law enforcement efforts to contain riots. It would also set up a citizen’s appeal process when cities and counties try to reduce police budgets in response to riots.
- The final vote in the Senate was 23 – 17, with one Republican voting with Democrats. Democratic legislators argue that the bill violates First Amendment rights and restricts public opinion. Republicans counter-argue that the bill would protect law enforcement officers and prevent public disorder. GOP State Senator Ed Hooper argued the legislature was not about racism but about “law and order.”
- Since January 6th, the day of the Capitol Riot, at least 13 states have adopted legislation to crack down on protests. Additionally, Arizona, Indiana, Maryland, Minnesota, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, Virginia, and Washington all filed bills that target social justice protests more broadly.
“This legislation ensures that no community in the state engages in defunding of their police. ” claimed DeSantis.
- Critics also argue the bill is using violence at the Capitol to target peaceful protests. Legislators also proposed fines and mandatory jail sentences from 30 days to four years. The bill joins similar bills that already exist and carry similar penalties. The majority of bills establish 3rd-degree felonies for property damage, injuring a person, or obstructing a roadway.
In conclusion, the bill allows local police to challenge budgets and opens communities to liability for poor riot control.
