MINOT, N.D. - The author of a proposed statewide ballot measure says he will appeal a $50 municipal fine for obstructing the sidewalk across the street from the State Fairgrounds.
Roland Riemers of Emerado was cited July 23 for obstructing the sidewalk while collecting petition signatures for the measure. He said the city violated his free speech rights.
"They are just using the law inappropriately. It's an obvious First Amendment violation," Riemers said.
Police Capt. Al Hanson said a city ordinance prohibits anyone from obstructing a sidewalk except in certain instances, such as sidewalk sales for which a merchant has a city permit.
Riemers is the author of a ballot proposal that would require prenuptial agreements, limit child-support payments after divorces and call for an elected state family advocate position. Supporters need at least 12,844 petition signatures by Aug. 8 to get it on the November ballot.
