Florida governor signs controversial 'pro-law enforcement' law cracking down on riots

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis on Monday signed into law a controversial bill that aims to crack down on riots and property damage in the face of fierce opposition from Democrats in the state, who argue it will have a chilling effect on peaceful protests.

The new law will increase penalties for assault, battery, burglary and theft, and battery against a law enforcement officer during a riot, as well as prohibit the damaging or defacing of memorials or historic property.
DeSantis, a Republican, touted the law in a news conference Monday as "the strongest, anti-rioting, pro-law enforcement piece of legislation in the country."
"We're also putting an end to the bullying and intimidation tactics of the radical left by criminalizing doxing and requiring restitution for damaging memorials and monuments by rioters," he added.