The parts of the bill (HB 1 ) that most upset Democrats grant civil legal immunity to people who drive through protesters blocking a road; prevent people arrested for rioting or offenses committed during a riot from bailing out of jail until their first court appearance; and impose a six-month mandatory sentence for battery on a police officer during a riot.
DeSantis, when he unveiled the proposal, emphasized the need to prevent bail for rioters, so they aren’t able to rejoin the unrest.
Cities and counties would also be civilly liable for damages caused during a riot if they don’t restrain police from quelling the disturbance.
A new crime of “mob intimidation,” defined as three or more people “acting with a common intent” forcing or threatening to force another person from taking a viewpoint against their will, is created by the bill. It is punishable as a first-degree misdemeanor, and bail is denied until first court appearance for anyone charged with the crime.
That provision is in response to videos last summer of protestors of police violence menacing people eating at outdoor restaurants.
Memorials, statutes and historic property, including Confederate monuments, a target of some protesters last year, would be protected under the bill since it would require restitution for repairs. The bill also increases penalties for assault, battery, burglary and theft during a riot.
After the vote, Farmer and several other Democratic senators donned black shirts to mourn what they called the death of the First Amendment.
“After the vote, Farmer and several other Democratic senators donned black shirts to mourn what they called the death of the First Amendment.”
Those nitwits either can’t read or didn’t read the part of the First Amendment that only protects “the right of the people peaceably to assemble.”
Best. Governor. Ever.