What is with these people?  This "church" or "congregation" continues to demonstrate at the funerals of our soldiers against homosexuality.  Apparently they believe the war in Iraq is Gods wrath for Americas acceptance of homosexuality.

"Thank God for IEDs," the Web site says. IEDs, or improvised explosive devices, is the military's term for the roadside bombs, which have taken a heavy toll on coalition troops.

Unbelievable.  This is not about war or a protest against the war, but rather aimed strictly at the gay & lesbian community. Their hatred for homosexuals has led to this, and its apparently working, they are gathering more attention.  These are the same people who picketed at the funeral and events surrounding the death of Matthew Shepard. They have picketed other funerals and also churches who the supported gay & lesbian community. Although they received a bit of notoriety, nothing like this. 

Now the group has raised an interesting constitutional issue, their right to demonstrate at funerals without a barrier or limit on how close they can demonstrate. While no family should have to see, listen, or read disgusting messages or placards, do they have the free speech right to "protest" without an additional federal barrier? Regardless, they will likely sue, bringing more attention.  This group has states looking at new or or strengthening current laws as well as a federal law being contemplated.

Hate speech, violent speech, speech meant to impede should have a meaningful barrier which does not impose on the right to protest.  500 to a 1000 feet does not effect a protest. 

Another question. Would a federal law be contemplated if the funerals being picketed were of those everyday citizens who were gay?