Tougher penalties for protesters who block freeways, airports and mass transit are part of a major public safety bill Minnesota House and Senate lawmakers have tentatively agreed on, and will soon go into negotiations with Governor Mark Dayton. Lead Senate negotiator, Maple Grove Republican Senator Warren Limmer says the public has reacted very favorably to the protest measure. Limmer says, “They don’t mind anyone having and exercising their right of free expression, just don’t do it on the freeway.”
Opponents of the measure warn it will stifle free speech. They say blocking freeways is the only way protesters can get the attention of officials who are not doing enough to prevent more shootings like the police officer killings of Philando Castile and Jamar Clark.