California Bill Would Increase Fines for Protesters Blocking Highways

The penalties, which could hit $1,000 for a third conviction, aim to discourage demonstrations that interfere with emergency vehicles.

Protesters hold up signs as they block the freeway during a demonstration calling for the removal of District Attorney Jackie Lacey and to defund the police in Los Angeles on July 1, 2020. Valerie Macon/AFP via Getty Images

A new bill that would increase penalties for demonstrators who obstruct freeways in California was introduced Feb. 15, a response to multiple recent highway blockings by protesters.

Proposed by Republican Assemblywoman Kate Sanchez, Assembly Bill 2742 prohibits drivers or pedestrians from obstructing a highway, including during a protest, in any manner that interferes with transit of an authorized emergency vehicle.