Sebelius signs bill banning funeral picketing

To ensure the privacy of Kansas families as they mourn the loss of their loved ones, Governor Kathleen Sebelius has signed a bill banning funeral picketing.

“I appreciate the legislature moving swiftly on this issue so we can protect the privacy of families in their time of mourning,” Sebelius said. “As we honor the memories of those Kansans who we’ve lost, we wish to shield their families from the despicable and disgraceful displays of those seeking publicity.”

SB 226 prohibits protests from being within 150 feet of a funeral for one hour before, during and two hours after the service.  It will also be unlawful to block a public street or sidewalk. Violators will be subject to fines and six months in jail.

Similar legislation was passed and signed last year, but was struck down by the Kansas Supreme Court. The aspect of the legislation identified by the Court in its rejection has been removed from this version of bill.

This bill goes into effect upon its publication in the Kansas Register. Governor Sebelius has signed 37 bills and vetoed one during the 2008 Legislative Session.

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