The Trump administration is facing backlash over a proposal which some say is intended to block protests around the White House and the National Mall.

The Trump administration is facing backlash over a proposal which some say is intended to block protests around the White House and the National Mall, reports The Guardian.
The controversy began in August when Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke, via the National Park Service, submitted a list of proposed changes "related to demonstrations and special events at certain national park units in the National Capital Region." 
Among the suggestions are increased restrictions on the public's access around the White House for security purposes and on public gatherings around the National Mall's memorials "in order to preserve an atmosphere of contemplation." 
The proposal also aims to change the number of people that can protest without a permit and introduce so-called "cost recovery" fees on permitted demonstrations. 
The American Civil Liberties Union calls the latter move "a fee for the right to protest" that is intended to "keep the pesky protesters away." 
As such, it is asking people to speak out during the public comment period which lasts until October 15. 
For its part, an NPS spokesperson has responded to the controversy by telling Bustle, "Should the comments we receive during this process indicate that cost recovery for First Amendment activities is something we should consider in the future, we would, of course, explore those kinds of legal questions."