Right to Worship Act introduced to protect houses of worship

A bipartisan group of lawmakers has introduced the Right to Worship Act in both the U.S. House of Representatives and the Senate. The legislation aims to protect individuals accessing houses of worship from disruptive demonstrations by establishing a 100-foot buffer zone around these sites one hour before and after religious services.

Sponsored by Senators Ted Cruz (R-TX) and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), and Representatives Brad Knott (R-NC) and Tom Suozzi (D-NY), the bill seeks to address recent incidents of harassment and protests at religious institutions. Violators of the buffer zone could face civil penalties ranging from $2,500 to $10,000.

The act has received support from several organizations, including the Anti-Defamation League, the American Jewish Committee, the Jewish Federations of North America, and Agudath Israel of America. The Islamic Society of North America and some Hindu groups have also endorsed the measure. Supporters emphasize that the bill targets disruptive conduct rather than the content of speech, stating, “No one should have to push through a hostile crowd or shout over a bullhorn in an attempt to pray.”