POLK COUNTY, Fla. — Gov. Ron DeSantis was in Polk County on Monday to sign the controversial “anti-riot” bill into law.
The governor, along with Senate President Wilton Simpson, House Speaker Chris Sprowls, Sen. Danny Burgess, Rep. Juan Fernandez-Barquin, Sheriff Grady Judd and more made the announcement at 10 a.m. at the Polk County Sheriff’s Office in Winter Haven.
The state Senate approved the measure Thursday afternoon.
The bill creates a new crime called “mob intimidation.” It also enhances penalties for existing riot-related offenses and will make it harder for cities to cut law enforcement spending.
READ: Florida Senate approves anti-protest bill with Gov. DeSantis set to sign it
Critics say it will limit free speech and have a negative impact on protesters.
Those in favor say it will simply punish violent protesters.
Click here to watch updates on Channel 9 Eyewitness News.
WATCH: WWII-era plane makes emergency water landing at Cocoa Beach Air Show
Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, and click here to watch the latest news on your Smart TV.
Cox Media Group
