Nassau County officials announced a free speech protection roadway protocol that focuses on safety in wake of recent non-violent protests that have taken place across the country following the police-involved death of George Floyd.

Nassau County Executive Laura Curran says the focus will be on the safety of protesters, pedestrians, motorists and bicyclists in the county.

“This roadway protection protocol covers all marches, demonstrations and protests,” says Curran. “We have a duty to protect the public’s right to protest safely.”

Curran says the program requires protesters to identify their route before demonstrations begin and they must stay on the route that has been identified.

The move is to protect roadway safety and to make sure emergency vehicles can pass if needed.

“Anyone who does not comply with the lawful order to stick to the route and allow the safe flow of traffic may be subject to enforcement,” says Curran.

People who want to organize a march can contact the Nassau County Police Community Affairs at least 24 hours in advance to identify their routes – 516-573-7360.

As of Wednesday, Nassau reported 62 new COVID-19 hospitalizations. However, the number of new positives remained below 1%.