Safe and Open Streets Act is a Direct Response to Radical Tactics Used by Anti-ICE Riots in L.A.
Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) joined Senators Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), and Bill Cassidy (R-La.) in introducing the Safe and Open Streets Act. The bill would make it a federal crime to purposely obstruct, delay, or affect commerce by blocking a public road or highway.
“Protestors who willfully block traffic pose a serious threat to public safety by impacting the flow of emergency vehicles and personnel. They can also significantly inconvenience Americans trying to get to and from work, school, or important personal business. The First Amendment protects the right to assemble and protest peacefully, but it does not permit such behavior. I’m proud to join Sen. Tillis and our colleagues in ensuring America’s streets are kept clear for everyone,” said Senator Budd.
“The emerging tactic of radical protestors blocking roads and stopping commerce is not only obnoxious to innocent commuters, but it’s also dangerous and will eventually get people killed. It needs to be a crime throughout the country. I’m proud to introduce the Safe and Open Streets Act so that radical activists who resort to these reckless and dangerous tactics are held accountable under the full weight of the law for endangering public safety,” said Senator Tillis.
Read the full bill text HERE.
Background
The Safe and Open Streets Act is in direct response to radical tactics of anti-ICE protestors who have intentionally blocked roads and highways across the country, including in Los Angeles, stranding drivers and compromising the free flow of commerce. The bill would penalize lawbreakers through fines or up to five years of imprisonment.
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