Fla. Senate committee approves funeral protest ban

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) - Picketing, protesting and other disturbances would be banned at all funerals and burials in Florida under a legislation that's on a fast track.

It would expand an existing ban that's limited to funerals and burials involving military honor details. Violators can face up to a year in jail.

The Senate version (SB 118) received final committee approval Tuesday.  A similar bill (HB 15) earlier cleared all committees. Both now are ready for floor votes after the legislative session begins March 5.

Florida's existing law, a federal statute and similar legislation in other states are largely a response to military funeral protests by a Kansas-based church. The church contends God is punishing the United States for tolerating homosexuality. Protesters often carry signs with message such as "Thank God for Dead Soldiers."