Georgia lawmakers pass bill penalizing protests that block roads

A group of people holding signs and flags march down a street in a protest
Protesters march through downtown Atlanta on Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, carrying signs in protest of an ICE officer's shooting of a Minnesota woman. (Matthew Pearson/WABE)

The Georgia House voted Monday to impose tougher punishments on protesters who block streets, approving the bill over objections from legislators who said it infringes on free speech rights.

The 96-69 vote sends the bill to Gov. Brian Kemp’s desk after it previously passed the state Senate.

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