GOP Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee Signs Bill That Will Punish Some Protesters With Loss Of Their Right To Vote

The Associated Press reports:

Tennessee protesters will face harsher penalties, including losing the right to vote, for breaking certain laws during demonstrations under a new law enacted by Gov. Bill Lee.

The Republican quietly signed off on the bill Thursday. Lee has previously conceded there were portions of the bill he “would have done differently” but ultimately agreed to sign it.

Most notably, the law says those who illegally camp on state property would face a Class E felony, punishable by up to six years in prison, rather than a misdemeanor. The American Civil Liberties Union had asked Lee to veto the legislation, saying it attacks free speech rights.

JUST IN: Tennessee governor signs bill that would punish some protesters with loss of voting rights https://t.co/hy3QBIuN5Q pic.twitter.com/2n6sstQVsM

— The Hill (@thehill) August 22, 2020