Proposed Ban on Protests Near Houses of Worship in New York

Lawmakers in New York are pushing for a ban on protests within 8 meters of religious sites following a recent incident where anti-Israel protesters marched on a Manhattan synagogue, shouting “Death to the IDF.”

This proposed legislation, put forth by Rep. Micah Lasher (D-Manhattan) and Sen. Sam Sutton (D-Brooklyn), aims to prevent demonstrations near the entrances, driveways, or parking areas of places of worship.

Those who violate this law could potentially face serious charges, including first-degree criminal obstruction of access to a religious place, classified as a class A misdemeanor, which can lead to up to one year in prison.

This same 25-foot buffer zone is already in effect around abortion clinics, meaning that violators could similarly face up to a year in prison for interfering with health services.

“New York should be a place where people can express their faith and opinions freely, without intimidation. But that equilibrium was upset outside Park East Synagogue,” said Lasher, who is also a candidate for Congress representing the 12th District, which includes the synagogue.

Recently, a historic Jewish temple on the Upper East Side witnessed a protest where hundreds of demonstrators chanted offensive phrases, calling for the “elimination of new settlers” and promoting a “globalized intifada.”

“This bill will assist city authorities and others in the state by ensuring that New Yorkers can attend houses of worship free from hate speech. Basic respect and decency should guide us all,” remarked Sutton, who represents the Orthodox Jewish neighborhoods in Borough Park and Midwood.

The measure has also garnered support from Sen. Liz Krueger (D-Manhattan) and Rep. Niri Rozic (D-Queens), both of whom co-sponsored the bill.

“Worship spaces should function as peaceful sanctuaries, not as venues for protesters’ grievances. Every New Yorker, regardless of their faith, has the right to worship without disruption. I’m thankful to Congressman Lasher for spearheading this legislation and proud to support it alongside him,” Rozic stated.

The bill has backing from various organizations, including the UFA Federation in New York.

“The freedom to worship without fear is a fundamental aspect of our national identity,” said Eric Goldstein, Executive Director of UJA. “No one should face intimidation at places of worship. We sincerely appreciate Sen. Sutton and Rep. Lasher for their commitment to safeguarding those who gather in these sacred spaces.”