The Ministerial Committee for Legislation advances a bill that would slap a fine of up to roughly NIS 75,000 ($23,850) on protesters who block “essential roads” during protests, Hebrew media outlets report.
The bill, according to the Ynet outlet, refers to high-traffic highways with no alternative routes that lead to public institutions or medical facilities.
Protesters who block roads in aggravating circumstances, including lighting bonfires, could be liable to pay a fine of up to NIS 226,000 ($71,850) under the reported text of the bill.
Recent years have seen mass anti-government protests, and protests on behalf of hostages held in Gaza, which frequently block roads. A series of Haredi protests against IDF conscription have also blocked roads.
Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara reportedly objects to the bill on the grounds that police already have the necessary tools to open roads when needed.
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