Minnesota Republicans want to ban ‘residential protesting’

(The Center Square) – Minnesota Republicans recently held the first hearing on a bill that would criminalize protesting outside private homes.

“Sometimes I ask myself, what argument could they possibly come up with to oppose this incredibly common sense proposal,” Rep. Walter Hudson, R-Albertville, said in an social media post in response to criticism of his bill.

Democrats say the proposed legislation is an attack on free speech.

The measure, HF 2809, would establish a new offense called “residential protesting,” making it illegal to demonstrate in front of or near someone’s dwelling unless the location serves as a business or plays host to a public meeting.

Violations could result in misdemeanor charges to gross misdemeanor in aggravated cases, along with potential restraining orders.

“This section does not prohibit the peaceful protesting of the place of holding ...