California lawmakers are pushing to increase the penalty for protesters who block highways, reflecting the growing frustration from both Republicans and Democrats over demonstrations related to the Israel-Hamas conflict. The recent protest on the Golden Gate Bridge, which caused significant traffic disruptions, has highlighted the need for stricter consequences.
A Republican-authored legislation successfully passed a significant committee vote on Monday at the Capitol, thanks to the crucial support of four Democrats. These Democrats went against the committee chair’s stance to help advance the bill.
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The full Assembly and Senate must still pass the measure and gain the support of Gov. Gavin Newsom. However, this vote indicates a division among Democrats, who hold the majority in the state Legislature. The protests over the war have caused significant turmoil in major cities and universities.
Assemblymember Kate Sanchez has proposed a bill that aims to increase the fine for protesters who obstruct highways and hinder the passage of emergency vehicles. Under the proposed legislation, the current fine of $100 would be doubled to $200. In cases of repeat offenses within a span of three years, the penalty could escalate up to $1,000.
Sanchez expressed concern over the increasing frequency, recklessness, and danger associated with highway blockings. He emphasized that these incidents have already resulted in adverse public health and safety outcomes.
On April 15, protesters brought traffic to a standstill on San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge by chaining themselves to parked vehicles. Their aim was to contribute to a nationwide movement calling for a cease-fire in the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Representing a district in Southern California, Sanchez expressed her concern over the impact of a previous protest on the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge. She emphasized that three organ transplants at a local hospital had been delayed as a result, highlighting the real and significant consequences such demonstrations can have on individuals’ health.
Assemblymember Lori Wilson, chair of the Transportation Committee and representative of a Bay Area district, expressed her opposition to the legislation, stating that she believes the existing penalties are sufficient. She emphasized that she still considers the bill unnecessary and does not believe it will effectively solve the problem.
During the hearing, none of the four Democrats who supported the bill, namely Juan Carrillo, Diane Papan, Chris Ward, and Gregg Hart, provided an explanation for their vote.
