“Thin line between free speech and violating someone’s personal space.”
Grand Rapids City Commissioner Lisa Knight says while protesters have first amendment free speech protection, Planned Parenthood patients have rights, too:
“I have issues with people who need help, primarily women, going to a place where they can receive those services being shamed and degraded.”
To stop prolife protesters using amplified sound to confront women who may have abortion appointments at Planned Parenthood the city is considering a 100-foot amplified sound ban around clinics. Commissioner Milinda Ysasi says it is an issue that’s been a problem for years:
“This is a regular occurrence.”
Chief Eric Winstrom says officers frequently respond to complaints at the clinic.
“We are responding on a weekly basis if not more to this location and a more bright line rule of whether or not this certain behavior is allowed or not allowed is easier for the police.”
The current noise ordinance vaguely prohibits sound that interferes with a person’s peaceful enjoyment of the premises. Interim city attorney Philip Strom is working on a new ordinance that protects patient and protesters’ rights.
“If we clearly define that you can’t have amplified sound within one hundred feet clarity exists that might help us.”
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