SB 443 General Assembly
Summary:
Will amend existing laws regarding public order offenses, specifically targeting the obstruction of highways, streets, sidewalks, and other public passages.
Details:
Increased Punishments: The bill proposes to enhance penalties for individuals obstructing public roadways, including protests..
Felony Charges: Offenders could face felony charges if their actions result in injuries or property damage.
Civil Liability: The bill allows individuals affected by such obstructions to sue for damages, with a minimum of $2,000 in damages permitted.
This legislation is a clear attempt to prevent Georgia citizens from expressing our views through protests. It is vaguely written, deliberately, and, if passed, will be weaponized to threaten peaceful demonstrators, in such protests as those in Monroe, Athens, Social Circle and throughout District 10 in No Kings Rallies, ICE OUT protests, and other gatherings. The intent of this bill is to make protest riskier, more expensive and easier to prosecute. It is a deliberate attempt to silence free speech in public spaces.
Where is the bill now?
SB 443 is in the Senate Judiciary Committee and discussion began on February 12.