OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) - The Oklahoma Senate approved a bill Monday to crack down on protesters who block roadways, harass people, fail to disperse or assault law enforcement.
The bill, approved on a 38-8 party-line vote with Republicans in favor, is one of a series of Republican-backed proposals across the country that would increase criminal penalties for activities associated with protests last summer over racial injustice and police brutality.
Sen. Darrell Weaver, R-Moore and the bill’s author, says his bill is not aimed at peaceful protests but at violent riots that can result in the destruction of property.
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“My legislation takes a reasonable approach by clarifying and strengthening specific penalties and requiring community service and restitution for damaged or destroyed property,” Weaver said in a statement.
The bill now heads to the House for consideration.
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