It was approved last week in a 17-10 vote. The measure, written by Republican Legislator Karla Boyce, could mean thousands of dollars in fines or even jail time for anyone who “intends to annoy, alarm or threaten the personal safety of the police officer, peace officer or first responder.”
Boyce said most of the reaction she’s heard was positive, but she has heard some objections that center on one word.
“Annoy, OK? I know that was what was used on the floor of the legislature," Boyce said.
When asked to describe what annoying behavior would look like, Boyce didn't provide specifics.
"I think it’s the intent of the person that is making the overture or harassment,” said Boyce. “It’s no different than how someone can perceive feeling unsafe in the workplace. So you could say to me, ‘How can you feel unsafe?’ 'Well, that’s how I feel. I feel unsafe because of X, Y or Z.' ”
Boyce said no Democrat asked her to change the wording of her bill.
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