California Bill Would Double Penalties for Protesters Blocking Traffic

A California lawmaker is looking to double penalties for protesters who block traffic on highways, a method used April 15 by pro-Palestinian demonstrators hoping to disrupt the economy throughout the state. Republican Assemblywoman Kate Sanchez of Rancho Santa Margarita introduced Assembly Bill 2742 Feb. 15 and announced the legislation with a video posted on X. Her bill calls for fines ranging from $200 for a first conviction to possibly $1,000 for later convictions. Calling it “common-sense legislation,” the freshman lawmaker hopes the stronger fines will send a message. “Protesters have crossed a dangerous line, and as a result, they’re stopping people from living their day-to-day lives,” Ms. Sanchez said in the video. “Parents are blocked from picking up their kids from school. Fire trucks are prevented from responding to fires. And ambulances are hindered from getting their patients the emergency medical attention they desperately need....