Free Republic

Environmental activists and conservation groups are confronting a variety of state-level attempts to criminalize dissent aimed at corporate and commercial targets. In Pennsylvania, Republican state senator Joe Scarnati has introduced SB589, which defines a new crime: 'environmental harassment' or 'communicating' a threat to commit or cause a violent crime dangerous to human life, property, or business practice. If passed, the bill would create a new misdemeanor and fines for actions leading to 'loss of business.' Protest signs or slogans could be included under this rubric of threatening communication. Activists convicted under the law might also have to pay restitution for...