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DeSantis and other Republicans say the bill cracks down on violent protests, but Democrats and civil-rights groups argue it will infringe on First Amendment rights.
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A single Republican, Sen. Jeff Brandes of St. Petersburg, crossed party lines and joining Democrats in voting against the bill.
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With critics warning that the bill would chill free speech and have a disparately negative impact on Black people, a key Senate committee Friday approved a controversial measure that Republicans argue is needed to crack down on violent protests.
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Sen. Darryl Rouson, D-St. Petersburg, said he worries the measure cracks down on dissent — a tenant of American democracy — and does so in a way that would hurt Black and minority voices.
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The bill would create new crimes related to violent protests and make it harder for local governments to reduce police spending.
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An anti-rioting bill will be voted on by the Florida House Friday, but opponents spoke out against it in Tampa Thursday.
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The proposed bill would increase penalties for participating in any violent or disorderly assembly, including a ban on working for the state, as well as allowing no bond or bail for anyone charged with a crime related to rioting or looting.
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Democratic Rep. Mike Gottlieb questions whether the bill would further burden local governments which often foot the bill for people in jails.
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The governor touted Florida's growing economy and the reopening of classrooms during his State of the State address.
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Among them: Where concealed weapons will be permitted, and a new class of laws involving rioting.
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COVID-19 will be top of mind as the Florida Legislature begins its 2021 session. These will be the main topics they'll address.
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The FBI has warned of possible protests at all 50 state Capitols starting Saturday.