Conroe Delays Vote on Protest Permit Rule Amid First Amendment Pushback

The city of Conroe has postponed its proposal to mandate that protesters secure a permit and pay a $500 fee for assemblies exceeding 25 individuals in response to strong objections from residents who contended that the measure would infringe upon their First Amendment rights.

City council members delayed their decision following a passionate debate ignited by the ongoing “No Kings” protests that have been occurring nearly every week. 

Conroe Police Chief Jon Buckholtz advocated for the ordinance, highlighting concerns over safety risks and increasing law enforcement expenses linked to demonstrations near major roadways.

“I have had many concerns as we have had to maintain a heightened presence during protests repeatedly,” Buckholtz said, according to the Houston Chronicle. “We are incurring significant expenses to ensure the safety of protesters who are positioned adjacent to a highway.”

The suggested regulation would mandate that those organizing demonstrations with more than 25 attendees obtain a city permit, pay a $500 application fee, and present evidence of liability insurance coverage of no less than $500,000 for each incident. The proposed measure would not have impacted the planned “No Kings” protests occurring this weekend in various cities across the country.

Community members gathered in significant numbers to voice their opposition to the proposal during the public comment session. 

Several individuals expressed that it represented a monetary obstacle to open communication. “We are entitled to express our concerns peacefully,” stated Conroe resident Vicki Scott in an interview with Houston’s KPRC2. “This represents a clear attack and infringement on our fundamental rights.”

Another resident, Laurie McSpadden, voiced her frustration as well. “I believe that if you are paying for free speech, then it is not truly free,” she stated to ABC13.

In light of the criticism, city officials continue to express their worries regarding safety at roadside demonstrations. “I have serious worries about the possibility of someone accidentally or intentionally driving off the curb on a state highway, leading to injuries or fatalities,” Buckholtz stated. “I must make a concerted effort to safeguard everyone.”

Mayor Duke Coon expressed his backing for creating a new version of the ordinance, highlighting the importance of finding a balance between safety and civil liberties. “We should seek areas of agreement,” Coon stated. “Let’s locate a document that ensures the safety of all.”

Other cities in Texas have comparable permit requirements. 

In Houston, permits are necessary for parades and outdoor music events. Sugar Land requires approval for gatherings held on city property, while Pearland mandates permits for crowds that exceed 1,500 individuals.

The Conroe council has yet to establish a new date for reconsidering the proposal.