Kentucky Democrats were angered by the Republican-dominated Senate's passing of a bill that will criminalize the insults against police officers. This concerns verbal attack and gestures which might provoke the police officers to commit violent reaction against civilians. Courier Journal noted that aside from criminalizing the provocation of individuals to the police officers, Senate Bill 211 will also raise and promote punishment for crimes rooted in riots.

Series of riots and protests had been held due to the people's disappointment to the police officers concerning their violent episodes against several people just like George Floyd.

Democrats and Kentucky Senate Bill

Herald Mail Media noted that Senate Bill 211, introduced by Republican Senator Danny Carroll, is now on its way to the House, where it will face possible amendments from other legislators. The bill was approved by the Senate with a vote of 22-11, with six Republicans joining the Democrats in opposing the bill.

Courier Journal mentioned Democrat Senator Gerald Neal, saying that he was insulted by the bill as it symbolizes a direct attack on his constituents who demanded racial injustices through protests. Neal represents a majority of the Black district in west Louisville.

As CBS News reported, the bill notes that any individual who "accosts, taunts, insults, or challenges a law enforcement officer," utilizing derisive words or even gestures that will provoke them of a violent response will be guilty of a misdemeanor. Violators will have to face 90 days in jail and fines.

Neal furthered that the bill is "unwise, provocative, unnecessary, and unreasonable." He added that he is perplexed about the legislation because there are already existing laws that states how to deal with violent protesters or rioters. He fears this legislation will bring harm to the efforts of the city in achieving unity.

Moreover, Herald Mail Media mentioned Senator Reginald Thomas, saying that the bill is sending a message to protesters that they are going to be put in their place. Thomas added that the bill is breaching the First Amendment which is protecting the people's freedom of speech.

Kentucky Senate Bill 211

Carroll argued that the bill he is pushing will protect the police officers and the properties of Louisville that Mayor Greg Fischer was allegedly not able to do in the previous year. Carroll added that he will not apologize for the said bill furthering that there is a distinction between peaceful protests and riots.

According to Carroll, Senate Bill 211 defines the riots to be a public disturbance that involves five or more people showing violent conduct that will harm other individuals and properties. The bill proposes an increase in the penalty for rioting will be held in custody for a minimum of 48 Hours.

Courier Journals also noted that Carroll is confident on the bill because there is a silent majority in favor of the Kentucky Bill for Police Officers.

WATCH: Kentucky bill would make it a crime to insult, taunt a police officer - from WLWT