Loitering Near a Funeral?

§ 272:42A of the general laws of Massachusetts is designed to outlaw disturbing a funeral. Good idea, right? The language used also prohibits "loitering" within five hundred feet of a building where a funeral is being held. You can face a fine of up to $1000 or up to a year in prison or both for violating this law.

Do I think the penalty is appropriate for people who picket or otherwise intentionally disturb a funeral? Absolutely! Do I think this is appropriate for someone who loiters too close? About as much as I think someone would actually be arrested and prosecuted for loitering too close to a funeral.