Where new rules limited spectators of this week’s special legislative session from holding protest signs, they got creative — and kicked out. Tuesday’s happenings provided a pretty clear idea of what legislation will come out of this session based on bills that passed a key Senate committee. The three bills that passed won’t change much, but many aren’t surprised. Folks were surprised, however, at how the House handled peacefully protesting spectators in its committees. 

On Monday, the House passed rules that limit debate on the House floor and prohibit protesters from holding signs and engaging in vaguely defined “disorderly conduct.” Protesters tested the rules by displaying messages on their arms, clothing and phones in the House session Tuesday morning. Later in the day, some were removed from a House committee for holding signs. After some audience members applauded when a bill that would have allowed more guns on school property was taken off notice, all spectators were asked to leave. 

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Reps. Justin Jones and Justin Pearson, foreground
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Rep. Jeremy Faison

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