# Plain Language Summary: Protect Our Judiciary Act of 2023

This bill makes it illegal to protest or demonstrate outside the homes or buildings where judges, jurors, witnesses, and court officers work or live. Right now, federal law already prohibits picketing near courthouses, but this bill expands that restriction to include private residences and other buildings these people use. If someone violates this law, they could face a fine and up to one year in prison.

The practical effect is that protesters would no longer be allowed to gather outside a judge's house, a juror's apartment, or a courthouse employee's office building to voice their opinions about court decisions or cases. This includes not just traditional picketing with signs, but also using sound trucks, megaphones, or any other form of public demonstration near these locations. The bill treats all these activities the same way—as criminal offenses.

The law is intended to protect people involved in the judicial system from intimidation or harassment at their homes and workplaces. Supporters argue this is necessary because judges and jurors need to make decisions based on the law, not fear of protests at their doorstep. However, critics worry this could limit people's right to free speech and peaceful protest, especially in high-profile cases where the public wants to make their views known to the people making legal decisions.

Protect Our Judiciary Act of 2023

Rouzer, David

Protect Our Judiciary Act of 2023This bill removes the intent requirement for the criminal offense related to picketing or parading in or near a building or residence used by a judge, juror, witness, or court officer.