One of the highlights of the 2021 Legislative Session, according to State Senator Amy Sinclair, was a measure called the “Back the Blue” bill. She says this bill that was eventually signed into law was passed in light of recent protests, particularly in Des Moines and the Midwest.

“We did increase penalties for rioting, not just for protests, not just for that allowed civil disobedience. But if you’re out rioting and harming other people or damaging property, blocking roadways or causing harm to others, the penalties did increase to a Class D felony. I staunchly support first amendment rights to free speech and assembly and all of that that goes with it. But the moment you cross the line to damaging other people’s property or harming other people’s life and well-being, you are no longer protesting, you’re a criminal, and we need to treat it as such. I was excited to support that and move it forward to the governor.”

The bill increased penalties for civil disobedience and increased qualified immunity for police officers.