Anti-Rioting Bill

Gov. Ron DeSantis said recent demonstrations across the state did not violate the new anti-rioting law but noted that blocking roads was illegal in Florida before the bill was signed.

With demonstrations of support for protesters in Cuba happening in Florida, there is some worry about if — and how — HB 1 will affect those participating.

The proposal is a compromise between the Legislative Black Caucus and Republicans, and comes after high-profile deaths of Black Americans by law enforcement.

Mayor Jane Castor established a task force last year in an attempt to change the Tampa Police Department by improving relations with the public, as well as beginning changes to police training.

A single Republican, Sen. Jeff Brandes of St. Petersburg, crossed party lines and joining Democrats in voting against the bill.

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.

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.

The bill would create new crimes related to violent protests and make it harder for local governments to reduce police spending.

An anti-rioting bill will be voted on by the Florida House Friday, but opponents spoke out against it in Tampa Thursday.

Among them: Where concealed weapons will be permitted, and a new class of laws involving rioting.

COVID-19 will be top of mind as the Florida Legislature begins its 2021 session. These will be the main topics they'll address.