Coutesy of Morguefile
Coutesy of Morguefile
Anyone wearing a mask at a protest could be charged with a Class C misdemeanor if a bill sponsored by Rep. John Cabello (R-Rockford) becomes law,
"Everyone should have the right to go out and peacefully protest," Cabello told the online rrstar.com. "But if the peaceful protest turned to where there is property damage or personal injury, we should be able to identify them people causing harm."
The text of House Bill 4902 says that it is intended to discourage protest attendees from trying to hide their identities from law enforcement. Hoods, bandanas, masks, and other items that could conceal the face would be subject to the law.
Rep. John Cabello (R-Rockford)
| Courtesy of ilga.gov/
Exceptions include Halloween costumes on Oct. 31, masks worn at work or sporting events that require facial covering, and masks worn by individuals with medical conditions.
A Class C misdemeanor carries a penalty of 30 days in jail and a $1,500 a fine. It is the last severe class of misdemeanors in Illinois.
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