NY Governor’s Subway Mask Ban Proposal Sparks Debate Over Right to Anonymous Protest
The restrictions raise constitutional questions since they appear aimed at stopping a specific group from an activity that is widely practiced by members of the public.
Protesters Take Over Columbia University Building in Escalation of Campus Demonstrations
Universities nationwide are grappling with how to clear out encampments as commencement ceremonies approach, with some continuing negotiations and others turning to force.
Supreme Court Rejects Appeal From Black Lives Matter Activist Over Protest Lawsuit
At an earlier stage of the case, the high court noted that the issue was “fraught with implications for First Amendment rights.”
Prosecutors Charging 80 Protesters Who Blocked Bay Area Bridge to Demand Cease-Fire
Protesters blocked bridge traffic into San Francisco and demanded that President Joe Biden call for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza.
In Statehouses Across U.S., Varied Rules Restrict Public Voices
While acts of protest big and small are common in legislatures, states often have rules in place to limit disruptions to government proceedings, with authorities given wide latitude to remove people who jeer, chant or are otherwise seen to interrupt debates.
California Legislature Considers Law Limiting Protest Activity Near Vaccine Sites
If passed, SB742 would create a 100-foot buffer zone around vaccination clinics where individuals cannot “knowingly approach a person... for the purpose of obstructing, injuring, harassing, intimidating, or interfering with... that person in connection with any vaccination services.”
Anti-Abortion Group Loses First Amendment Case Against City of Detroit
On June 7th, a Michigan federal court dismissed a First Amendment challenge filed against the city of Detroit by a group of anti-abortion protesters. The case offers an interesting look at how courts balance public safety concerns against the right to protest.
Anti-Riot or Anti-Protest? Florida Governor Signs Contentious New Bill
On April 19th, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed into law H.B. 1, new legislation that includes a collection of amendments and additions to existing Florida statutes concerning criminal charges for violent protests. The legislation enhances penalties for people who commit crimes during a riot and gives the state the power to approve funding of local budgets, particularly in regards to funding law enforcement.