Updated: 10:19 PM EDT May 10, 2021 WXII12.com Web Staff Legislation that would impose harsh criminal penalties for protesters charged with rioting is quickly moving through the state legislature.Monday evening, House lawmakers approved House Bill 805: Prevent Rioting and Civil Disorder. It now heads to the Senate.The measure would significantly increase penalties for inciting a riot that leads to death, engaging in riots, and engaging in riots that lead to the physical injury of a first responder. Individuals whose person or property are damaged in a riot would be able to recover treble damages, court costs, and attorneys fees.You can read House Bill 805 in its entirety here. Riots and looting devastated many North Carolina downtowns last year at a time when many small businesses were already struggling, said House Speaker Tim Moore. This legislation will seek to deter future riots and increase penalties on those who engage in this anti-social anarchy. A