A bill to make it illegal to harass a first responder in Monroe County is now law. County Executive Cheryl Dinolfo signed it late this afternoon, although it drew plenty of pushback at a public hearing Monday.
A number of speakers said the law is too vague and open to abuse, including making people liable to arrest for using their phones to video police. City Councilmember Willie Lightfoot says City Council is opposed to the county law and was drafting a formal letter of opposition. Opponents said it would be challenged in court and through demonstrations.
But County Executive Cheryl Dinolfo says it's important to support first responders and that she's confident the law won't be abused.