Anti-Rioting Bill

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.

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.

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.

Democratic Rep. Mike Gottlieb questions whether the bill would further burden local governments which often foot the bill for people in jails.

The governor touted Florida's growing economy and the reopening of classrooms during his State of the State address.

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.

The FBI has warned of possible protests at all 50 state Capitols starting Saturday.