Agudath Israel of America has announced its support for the bipartisan SACRED Act, introduced by Representatives Tom Suozzi (D-NY) and Max Miller (R-OH). This bill aims to protect religious institutions by making it illegal to intimidate attendees or to obstruct access to houses of worship within a 100-foot zone.

“Houses of worship are sacred spaces and visitors gathering there to pray or attend communal events should be free from harassment. The SACRED Act helps protect communities by creating a buffer zone around places of religious worship and individuals and imposes penalties for violations of this law,” said Rabbi A.D. Motzen, national director of government affairs for Agudath Israel. “Unfortunately, recent incidents in front of synagogues around the country highlight the need for additional protections.”