Republican Indiana Rep. Jim Banks announced his intention to introduce a bill requiring protesters arrested during demonstrations in Washington, D.C., to pay the for police’s overtime and other fees.
Banks made the announcement in response to the “Shut Down DC” demonstration, where climate activists blocked major intersections around the nation’s capital during morning rush hour on Monday.
Under my bill, a person will be responsible for public safety response costs incurred by the District of Columbia’s response to a demonstration if, in connection with the demonstration, the person is convicted of a felony or misdemeanor offense.
— Jim Banks (@RepJimBanks) September 23, 2019
“Washington, D.C. collects over $4 billion in federal funding. Hoosier taxpayers shouldn’t be on the hook for illegal protests — it is a violation of their First Amendment rights,” Banks continued. “To be clear, my bill will not prohibit other demonstrations or protests on the National Mall like the annual March for Life or Women’s March. Those protests are legal because they obtained official permits. My bill would only apply to illegal protesters who are arrested.”
At least 26 activists were arrested by D.C. police for blocking traffic. A media spokesperson for the protest told the Washington Examiner their demonstrations were justified because the nation’s politicians need to do something about climate change, even if it means clogging traffic and trapping people in their commute.
“So a few idling cars, if it forces them to wake up, is more than worth it,” she said.
