Poor People’s Campaign protests new Capitol policy

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WTVQ) — The Poor People’s Campaign says it’s being denied its right to free speech after the Capitol put in a new policy regarding campaign protesters entering the Capitol.

This new 2 x 2 policy means no more than two protesters can enter the Capitol at a time.

State Police say this policy was put in place, not because of the group’s message, but because of what they say were unlawful acts by protesters.

They also say during past protests protesters have blocked traffic, tampered with property inside the Capitol, drew on the porch and sidewalk with chalk at the Governor’s Mansion and refused to leave the Capitol after hours.

KSP says other groups that have protested at the Capitol got permits to protest inside but the Poor People’s Campaign did not.

Reverend William Barber, the national co-chair for the Poor People’s Campaign, says the people do not need a permit to go inside.

Campaign supporters say they believe the rule is targeted specifically at them and they say they feel that is unjust.

Campaign organizers say they plan to seek legal action.