Obstructing a highway/passageway would be a felony under the proposal. Author: Jeni Diprizio Updated: 6:32 PM CDT April 9, 2021
MEMPHIS, Tenn Activists say a proposed Tennessee law is attempting to crack down on protesters.
The bill would increase the penalty for obstructing a highway and grant immunity to drivers who unintentionally kill or hurt someone who is blocking a road.
Punishment would also include a mandatory $3,000 fine. The bill goes before the Senate Judiciary Committee next week. I ve been arrested four times on the obstruction charge, said activist Keedran Franklin.
Franklin is all too familiar with the obstruction charge.
Franklin said when it comes to protests, police often use the obstruction of a highway or passageway charge as a way to arrest protesters. It s currently just a misdemeanor. He said that often means when you go to court, Pretty much they will write it off and they will dismiss it and its a $100 fine