U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) has 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 proposed legislation would make it a federal crime to intentionally obstruct, delay, or affect commerce by blocking public roads or highways.
Senator Budd explained the reasoning behind the bill: “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.”
Senator Tillis added: “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.”
The bill comes as a response to incidents involving anti-ICE protestors who have blocked roads in various locations across the United States, including Los Angeles. These actions have disrupted traffic flow for drivers and affected commercial activities. If enacted, violators could face fines or up to five years in prison.
