Senators Thom Tillis, Marsha Blackburn, Tommy Tuberville, Ted Budd, and Bill Cassidy have reintroduced the Safe and Open Streets Act. This legislation aims to make it a federal crime to deliberately obstruct or delay commerce by blocking public roads or highways.
The act is a response to incidents where anti-ICE protestors blocked roads and highways, including in Los Angeles, disrupting traffic and affecting commerce. The proposed law would impose penalties such as fines or imprisonment for up to five years on offenders.
Senator Tillis stated, “The emerging tactic of radical protestors blocking roads and stopping commerce is not only obnoxious to innocent commuters, but it’s also dangerous and will eventually get people killed. It needs to be a crime throughout the country.” He emphasized accountability for those using what he described as reckless tactics that endanger public safety.
Senator Blackburn added that blocking major roads constitutes “lawlessness that should not be tolerated,” noting potential dangers for emergency situations and individuals facing job-related consequences due to delays.
Senator Tuberville criticized local leadership during recent protests in Los Angeles, asserting that the First Amendment does not grant the right to block streets. He supports the bill as a measure against lawlessness.
Senator Budd expressed concerns about threats to public safety posed by obstructing traffic flow for emergency services. He stressed that while peaceful assembly is protected, disruptive behavior is not permissible.
Dr. Cassidy echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the right to gather peacefully without infringing on others’ rights by obstructing roads or rioting.
The full text of the bill can be accessed online.
