Wednesday, January 25, 2012

Kansas lawmakers are making another attempt to stop picketing at soldier's funerals.

Wichita Representative Mario Goico introduced a bill in committee that would make military members and their families a protected class.
The bill would allow civil action against anyone who threatens, harasses or intimidates a soldier or the family.

Members of the Westboro Baptist Church are known for picketing at soldiers funerals in Kansas and around the country.

"We have a number of servicemen who died in performance of their duties. Their families have been subject to terrible behavior," said Goico referring to the protests.

"Every time they try to shut us up, what they do is put a big megaphone to our mouths," said Margie Phelps who is a member of the Westboro Church. "It's not going to change what we say and do,it's giving more eyes and ears to what we do."

If the bill becomes law anyone who violates it would have to pay a five hundred dollar fine or damages.