North Carolina has answered the call to protect its citizens and communities with a pro-police, anti-rioter law passed without the Governor’s signoff.
This newly enacted legislation promises swift and decisive justice for those who threaten peace and public safety in North Carolina by engaging in unlawful activity with riots and other chaotic acts of lawlessness.
Townhall reports, In North Carolina, a bill that strengthens penalties for violent rioters will become law without the signature of Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper.
North Carolina lawmakers passed HB 40 this month, which toughens punishments for violent rioters and looters. Following George Floyd’s death in 2020, protests led to the legislation.
According to reports, Cooper vetoed a similar measure two years ago, HB 805, claiming it was “unnecessary.” However, the state legislature now has enough seats to override a veto if one state Democrat joins all Republicans. In February, six Democrats joined in supporting the measure.
The new law will make things very difficult for rioters who cause property damage, while protecting people’s rights to protest.
News observer reports, HB 40 would increase some of the penalties for rioting currently imposed by state law. A more serious felony is created when someone “willfully” engages in a riot and causes serious bodily injury or property damage greater than $2,500. Authorities may also detain anyone charged with rioting and looting for 24 hours as a “cooling off” period. Rioters who cause a death or assault a police officer or other emergency personnel face increased penalties.
After the 2020 protests against police brutality in downtown Raleigh, House Speaker Tim Moore proposed anti-riot legislation. According to Moore, he was concerned about the property damage incurred during some of the otherwise peaceful protests and wanted state law to act as a strong deterrent.
There were only two Democrats in the House and none in the Senate when Republicans passed the original bill in 2021. The bill was vetoed by Cooper, who complained it intimidated and discouraged protesters from exercising their constitutional rights. However, when Moore reintroduced it this session, Democrats supported it.
Willingham, a Black congressman, was a primary sponsor of the bill, and presented it to House and Senate committees, answering questions from Democrats and concerned activists.
North Carolina has made their severe stance on rioters clear with the recent passage of a new bill that forbids violence and protects citizens and local property without requiring approval from Governor Cooper. This pro-police, anti-rioter law brings order and safety back to NC, restoring the sense of security fostered by the Constitution. The people of NC can finally thank their government for protecting them in a chaotic time and doing its duty to keep peace and quell lawlessness. Without further delay, we can all move forward with the understanding that any disorder or deviance from accordance with the law will not be tolerated in North Carolina.
