A Kansas state law barring anyone from being within 25 feet of first responders engaged in their duties is coming under fire from some free-speech advocates, who say the bill violates the First Amendment and would be harmful as federal immigration raids continue throughout the state and country.
The Halo Act, which became law effective July 1 after the Republican-led Kansas legislature overrode the Democratic governor’s veto of the bill, makes it a misdemeanor for civilians to approach local and federal law enforcement, such as Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers, “while such first responder is engaged in the performance of such first responder’s duties.”
It is highly unlikely that this survives review in the 10th circuit, and it is even less likely it survives SCOTUS review should a split circuit occur. The Roberts court has proven itself unusually hostile to laws such as these.
ACAB but every paramedic has dealt with a couple fuck yous after narcan’ing someone. I’m not saying this to say cops aren’t fucking aweful but rather so as not to minimize how badly medical personnel get treated.