New Bill Proposes Buffer Zone Around Places of Worship

A proposed bill in Congress aims to establish a 100-foot “buffer zone” around houses of worship, making it a federal offense to obstruct worshippers from practicing their faith.

Representatives Tom Suozzi, a Democrat from Long Island, and Max Miller, a Republican from Ohio, introduced the legislation on Friday. The bill targets individuals who approach within 8 feet of worshippers with the intent to “intimidate or interfere” with their rights to worship.

Under the “Act for Protecting Access to Congregations and Religious Places from Disruption,” often referred to as “Sacred Law,” first-time offenders could face up to a year in prison, while repeat offenders may see penalties of up to three years.

For non-violent first offenses, there’s a potential maximum fine of $10,000 and a six-month prison term. A second offense might result in a fine of up to $25,000 and 18 months behind bars.

More serious ramifications await those who injure or assault worshippers, with prison sentences reaching up to 10 years.

Suozzi pointed to the rise in anti-Semitism and troubling protests outside synagogues as a reason for the bill, especially considering his district includes areas with significant Jewish populations. He mentioned the fear expressed by various religious groups, noting, “I hear it from Jews, Muslims, and Sikhs.”

Recently, the New York City Council also passed a similar measure to safeguard worshippers in light of disruptive protests near Manhattan’s Park East synagogue, though action from Mayor Zoran Mamdani is still pending.

Suozzi remarked, “We’re trying to balance people’s First Amendment right to protest with their First Amendment right to worship.” He emphasized a common-sense approach to tackling these serious social issues.

Miller echoed this sentiment, asserting that all Americans should be able to practice their faith without fear. He described the bill as a way to maintain safe access to places of worship while respecting constitutional rights for peaceful protest.

Suozzi also mentioned that the bill was created with guidance from constitutional experts and may encounter opposition from some liberal groups. However, he is optimistic it will succeed, arguing that the legislation is about penalizing harmful actions rather than infringing on free speech.

Additionally, the bill would empower federal prosecutors and state attorneys general to pursue civil lawsuits against those who engage in harassment.

Support for the bill comes from several organizations, including the Anti-Defamation League, the American Jewish Committee, and the Federation of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America.