Last year Austin was the scene of demonstrations.
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The peaceful protest does not include blocking roads and preventing access by emergency vehicles. That chaos will not be tolerated in Texas.¨ Greg Abbott, Texas President
Austin, Tx.
Governor Greg Abbott celebrated this Saturday that legislation was approved in the Texas Senate that cracks down on protesters for blocking roads, as happened after the death at the hands of African American George Floyd in Minneapolis by police officers.
“The peaceful protest does not include blocking roads and preventing access for emergency vehicles. That chaos will not be tolerated in Texas, “warned the Texan president.
The governor gave special thanks to legislators Stephanie Klick (District 91) and Donna Campbell (District 25), promising that he will sign this new law soon, so that it takes effect to be applied, if necessary.
“Well, I could add a snowplow to the Tahoe after this happens” (enacted), commented a Twitter user in the governor’s message. Another told him: “Enemy of democracy.”
WHOLESALE
The Texas Senate voted 25-5 to pass the bill that increases criminal penalties and jail time for those who obstruct the passage of emergency vehicles on a highway or who block the entrance to a hospital. He is now heading to the governor’s desk to get the law signed, The Texas Tribune reported.
The bill responds to national protests last year against police brutality, which were sparked by Floyd’s murder.
Massive protests broke out in major cities across the country, including in Texas, where protesters were arrested for allegedly damaging property or blocking roads, Bryan Mena recalls in his note.
House Bill 9 would make it a felony in state jail for people who knowingly obstruct an emergency vehicle that has flashing lights and sirens on.
Individuals could also face felony charges for obstructing entry to a licensed hospital. The Texas House also passed the bill, 90-55, a few weeks ago.
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