In a bipartisan vote, today the North Carolina overwhelmingly approved HB 40, to “Prevent Rioting and Civil Disorder” in a vote of 76-42.
House Speaker Tim Moore said, “This common-sense bill increases penalties for inciting deadly and dangerous riots to deter bad actors in otherwise peaceful protests. Our first amendment right to free speech is not an endorsement of violence, looting, or causing bodily harm to another person.”
He continued, “We must do a better job of supporting our law enforcement officers who risk their lives every day to keep us safe. It’s time to take a stand for the rule of law and the safety of our neighbors and business owners.”