A California lawmaker wants tougher penalties for protesters who block roads and bridges. This blocks people trying to get medical help quickly.
- Protests shut down freeways and bridges in the San Francisco Bay Area
- Protesters blocked the Golden Gate Bridge for hours
- Over 2 dozen people were arrested but may not face charges
Should people who block roads during protests face harsher punishment? Why or why not?
Protests Blocked Roads and Bridges
On Monday, protesters gathered to show support for Palestinians. Their protest blocked traffic for hours on the Golden Gate Bridge and other roads in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Over two dozen protesters were arrested. However, the district attorney said the protesters would likely not face charges, at least for now.
Lawmaker Proposes Higher Fines
California Assembly member Kate Sanchez wants higher fines for protesters who block roads and bridges. Under Sanchez’s proposal, fines would double for misdemeanors related to unlawful protests that block traffic.
Currently, misdemeanor fines are less than a speeding ticket, Sanchez said. Her bill would raise fines from amounts like $100 to $200 and $500 to $1000.
“It would just give people more tools in the toolbox to hold protesters accountable,” Sanchez explained.
Blocking Traffic Can Delay Emergency Response
The main concern is that blocked roads prevent ambulances, fire trucks and other first responders from reaching emergencies quickly. Even a short delay can be the difference between life and death in some medical situations.
Sanchez said interviews showed at least two people missed important medical appointments due to the Golden Gate Bridge protest. She called the protesters “selfish” for risking people’s lives.
The governor criticized the protest too, saying it was “not helpful” and there are better ways to exercise free speech.
Both Sides Could Agree on Road Safety
Sanchez said her bill could bring together people from different political views who value keeping roads clear for emergency vehicles. She argued there are “more productive, thoughtful ways to protest” than blocking traffic.
“This needs to stop,” Sanchez stated about the road-blocking protests happening across California. She hopes her proposed law will make protesters “held accountable to the full extent of the law.”
Conclusion
Do you think raising fines for protests that block roads is a good solution? Or would higher fines violate the right to free speech and peaceful assembly? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
* * *
Photo credit: AI
