A federal appeals court has reversed its previous decision and upheld a controversial 2021 Florida law aimed at curbing violent protests, after receiving clarification on the definition of “riot” from the Florida Supreme Court.
The 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals initially blocked the law, citing concerns that it was overly vague and could infringe on the rights of peaceful protesters.
However, the Florida Supreme Court, in response to a request from the federal court, clarified that the law does not apply to individuals who are merely present at a protest but do not engage in or assist with violence.
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With this clarification, the federal appeals court overturned its earlier injunction, stating that the law is not unconstitutionally vague and does not threaten peaceful protesters. The court emphasized that the law requires intent to assist in violence for a protester to be held criminally liable.
The law, championed by Governor Ron DeSantis following the 2020 protests over the death of George Floyd, increases penalties for individuals involved in violent demonstrations. Civil rights groups had challenged the law, arguing that it could be used to suppress peaceful protests and disproportionately target minority groups.
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The Florida Supreme Court’s interpretation of the law, however, assured the federal court that peaceful protesters are protected, leading to the reversal of the injunction. This decision marks a victory for Governor DeSantis and supporters of the law, while raising concerns among civil rights advocates about its potential impact on free speech and assembly.
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