Oklahoma adopts a law that could protect protesters overcoming protesters

Oklahoma adopts a law that could protect protesters overcoming protesters

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The state Senate last week approved Republican legislation 38-10. The bill makes it an offense punishable by up to one year in prison and a $ 5,000 fine for anyone obstructing a public street during the protest, according to the law. House Bill 1674 also states that drivers cannot be held criminally or civilly liable for the murder or injury of a protester if they ‘flee for a riot’, and there is ‘reasonable conviction’ that they are in danger.

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The bill comes amid a national debate on policing, racial prejudice and the right to protest. After months of protests – some of which turned into riots – caused by the death of George Floyd in police custody, Minnesota was once again at the center of major demonstrations this month. Not only was a former officer convicted of Floyd’s death, but the calls to justice were also picked up by the deadly shooting at 20-year-old Daunte Wright.

The first days of the protests over Wright’s death became chaotic when some protesters threw bottles and launched fireworks and officers deployed tear gas and stun guns.

“We are sending a message in Oklahoma today that rioters who threaten the safety of law-abiding citizens will not be tolerated. I remain unequivocally committed to protecting the right of Oklahoman’s first amendment to protest peacefully, as well as their right to to feel safe in their community, “Stitt said.

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A group protesting against the legislation gained brief access to the House of Representatives within the State Capital in Oklahoma City on Wednesday, according to CNN affiliate KFOR. The session resumed after the protesters left the Capitol building, KFOR reported.

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