Augusta considering stricter rules on public demonstration

AUGUSTA - Protesters at the Masters opposing Augusta National Golf Club&#39;s male-only membership might have to comply with stricter public demonstration laws. <br> <br> Augusta commissioners will be asked Tuesday to approve an updated city ordinance that refines the public demonstration law on the books, said City Attorney Jim Wall. <br> <br> Protesters from the National Council of Women&#39;s Organizations and the Reverend Jesse Jackson&#39;s Rainbow/Push Coalition have said they will show up in force at the Masters, hosted by Augusta National from April 7-13. <br> <br> The amended law requires groups of five or more people to apply for a permit from the sheriff&#39;s department 30 days in advance of the event. No timeline is given under existing law. <br> <br> The sheriff&#39;s office will have up to 10 business days to approve or deny the protest permit, and a denial can be appealed for judicial review up to five days later. <br> <br> Sheriff Ronnie Strength said public safety will supersede free speech, and he has declared public property surrounding Augusta National off-limits.