Wisconsin lawmakers OK tougher penalties for protesters
January 26, 2022 10:00AM CST
Credit: State of Wisconsin
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The Republican-controlled Wisconsin Assembly has approved a pair of bills that would create tougher penalties for protesters and defacing government property.
The first proposal would make attending a riot or blocking a street a misdemeanor punishable by up to nine months in jail and participating in a riot that causes property damage or personal injury a felony punishable by up to three-and-a-half years in prison.
The Senate and Assembly passed the measure Tuesday and sent it on to Gov. Tony Evers.
The Assembly also approved a bill that would make it a felony to damage government property of historical significance.
The bill now goes to the Senate.
