In a move that will inevitably thwart Kansas anti-gay hate group Westboro Baptist Church, Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn signed a bill Aug. 14 that makes it harder for groups to protest military funerals.
The legislation extends the "Let Them Rest in Peace Act," a 2006 measure that placed 200 feet of distance between protesters and funeral sites and outlawed protest for 30 minutes before and after the service.
In its newest form, the law adds an extra 100 feet of distance between protesters and funeral sites, bringing the ban up to 300 feet.
"Every family has a fundamental right to conduct a funeral with reverence and dignity," said Governor Quinn in a press statement. "This law ensures that the families of those who have given their lives for our country can grieve without harassment."
The expansion of the law will likely hinder Westboro Baptist Church, best known for picketing military funerals and other high-profile services with extreme anti-gay messages.
"This kind of law should not even be necessary," said Jim Darby, president of the Chicago chapter of American Veterans for Equal Rights. "It's really outrageous that someone would even think of going to a funeral and upsetting the family at this difficult time."
Still, Darby said he applauds the governor for supporting veterans and LGBT people.
