Legislation Against DAPL Protesters Fails in ND House

The bill said a driver who "unintentionally'' caused an injury or death to a person blocking a road would not be charged

BISMARCK, N.D. — Legislation aimed at protesters who blocked roads during the Dakota Access pipeline demonstrations has failed in the North Dakota House.

The bill said a driver who “unintentionally” caused an injury or death to a person blocking a road would not be charged.

The legislation’s primary sponsor, Republican Rep. Keith Kempenich, told The Washington Post recently the idea came from an interaction his mother-in-law had with protesters.

Kempenich says she found herself swarmed by protesters who jumped in front of her car while driving on Highway 1806.

The bill failed on a 50-41 vote.