Free speech, Redressing your Grievances will now Cost You. Is this Constitutional?

Here comes another rabbit out of the Walker hat. If you thought such terms as “authoritarian” or “creeping fascism” were over the top, you might want to rethink that. 

Gov. Scott Walker has come up with a road block politicians in the turbulent 60’s didn’t even think up. Instead of freedom and liberty, we’re getting government red tape and firewalls erected between citizens and elected politicians.

If this is how Republicans view the Constitution and they’re service to “we the people,” we’ve got a real problem:

jsonline: Gov. Scott Walker's administration could hold demonstrators liable for costs for extra police presence or cleanup and repairs following protests at the Capitol, under a new policy unveiled Thursday. The policy, which also requires more permits for events at the statehouse and other state buildings, took effect Thursday.

Administration Secretary Mike Huebsch said in a statement. "This policy ensures our ability to appropriately staff events for the safety of those participating."

Because the media gave a pass to the Walker administrations overreaction and over supply of security at the Capitol, Scott Walker can now claim “fees” attached to our First Amendment rights are only fair. But the details of one important element to the protests was not provided:

The policy does provide some leeway for spontaneous gatherings triggered by unforeseen events, according to the Department of Administration.

What leeway? Better plan ahead too...

Demonstrations in February and March … cost some $8 million. Smaller protests at the Capitol have continued throughout the year. Groups must obtain permits for all activity and displays in state buildings and apply for those permits at least 72 hours in advance.

If you want to get the attention of your elected representative, get out the wallet and don't be "noisy:" 

Groups holding demonstrations could be charged for the costs of having extra police on hand for the event. Costs associated with a counter-protest could be charged to that second group.

The costs would be $50 per hour per Capitol Police officer - costs for other police officers would depend on the costs billed to the state. The police could require an advance payment as a requirement for getting a permit. Any damage or cleanup after a demonstration could be charged to organizers.

Events can be terminated if they interfere with the business of the Capitol, including when noise from an event exceeds 90 decibels - about equal to a lawn mower or busy nearby roadway.

Hey tea party freedom fighters, where are you now...? Here's NBC 15's coverage from Zac Schultz: