Bill Aims To Curb Traffic-Blocking Protests

TALLAHASSEE, FL — The days of protesters blocking traffic along Florida’s busy roads and interstates may soon come to a screeching halt. At least, that will be the case if one Sunshine State lawmaker has his way.

Sen. George Gainer, a Panama City Republican, filed a bill earlier this week that would make it illegal for protesters or demonstrators to impede the flow of traffic. What’s more, the bill seeks to provide protections for motorists who unintentionally injure or kill protesters who are obstructing traffic. Should injury or death result, the protester or survivors would have the burden of proof.

In addition, protesters would be responsible for obtaining a special event permit or public assembly permit from the local government. Violations of the law would be considered a second-degree misdemeanor.

Gainer is asking for the bill to go into effect on July 1, 2017, if it receives a nod of approval from the Senate, House and Gov. Rick Scott. So far, a companion bill has not been filed in the House. The Senate has yet to take any action on the measure. The bill was filed on Feb. 21.

Multiple protests have erupted across Florida since Donald Trump’s election. While the Tampa Bay area has had only a few traffic-related issues, the same cannot be said for the Miami area. On Inauguration Day, Jan. 20, protesters spilled onto Interstate 95, causing traffic snarls. Thousands of protesters also took to Miami streets following Trump’s Nov. 8 election win.

To read the full text of the bill, visit the Senate’s website.

What are your thoughts on the bill? Share them by commenting below!

Photo by Paul Scicchitano