‘Anti-Riot’ Bill Signed by DeSantis

On Monday, April 19th, Governor Ron DeSantis signed Florida’s “anti-riot” bill into law, a measure that vastly increases law enforcement’s powers to crack down on civil unrest.

“If you look at the breadth of this particular piece of legislation, it is the strongest anti-rioting, pro-law enforcement piece of legislation in the country. There’s just nothing even close.” DeSantis says at a press conference in Winter Haven surrounded by Polk County Sheriff deputies and other law enforcement.

Previously, the final vote in the Senate was 23-17, with one Republican voting with Democrats in opposition. The bill passed the GOP-controlled House in late March. Democratic legislators argue that it would create a chilling effect on First Amendment rights and restrict political dissent. Republicans argued that it would protect law enforcement officers and prevent public disorder.

The bill will increase criminal penalties for assault and defacing monuments and other public property during riots. It will also penalize local governments that interfere with law enforcement attempting to contain riots and would provide a citizen’s appeal process when cities and counties attempt to reduce police budgets.

Sources: