Vehicular attacks on protesters are an increasingly common tactic used to disrupt anti-racist protests. That’s why it’s so concerning that some state legislatures are backing bills that shield drivers who hit protesters from criminal liability. Here’s how we’re investigating.
A Florida law signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis in April carries harsher penalties for crimes carried out in relation to protests. It also bans demonstrators from blocking roadways, while shielding drivers from criminal liability if they hit protesters.
orlandosentinel.com/politics/os-ne…
We submitted records requests to the Florida governor’s office, Senate, and House of Representatives requesting communications regarding the bill.
americanoversight.org/document/recor…
Oklahoma also signed into law a driver liability shield bill in April. We’ve asked the Oklahoma governor’s office for communications regarding the bill and for communications with its legislative sponsors.
americanoversight.org/document/reque…
A Missouri bill, which has passed both chambers of the state legislature, would similarly protect drivers who hit demonstrators. We’ve requested communications about the proposal from its legislative sponsors.
americanoversight.org/document/recor…
And in Iowa, we’re requesting communications from Gov. Kim Reynolds’ office about a law enforcement package she backs that includes anti-protest provisions and a liability shield for drivers who hit demonstrators.
americanoversight.org/document/recor…
As state-level efforts aimed at curtailing protests continue to spread across the country, we will keep investigating. Learn more here:
americanoversight.org/investigation/…
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