Florida’s anti-riot law faces First Amendment challenges

An Orlando attorney is filing a federal lawsuit challenging Florida’s anti-riot law signed this week by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. The lawsuit claims the law deprives citizens of their freedom of speech and association. The governor is defending the law as a way to protect businesses and police against violent protesters. (Orlando Sentinel, April 22, 2021, by Steven Lemongello)

The American Civil Liberties Union said the law was so vague that anyone in a protest that turns violent could be swept up on charges that could result in a five-year prison term. There are also concerns about a provision of the law that makes it unlawful for three or more people to meet to disturb the peace. (ABA Journal, April 21, 2021, byu Debra Cassens Weiss)

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