New York State passes buffer zone legislation protecting synagogues from harassment

New York State legislators have passed a budget including buffer zone laws designed to protect houses of worship from harassment. The legislation, which passed the senate 53-10 and the assembly 110-33, amends the penal code to prevent interference with access to religious sites. Governor Kathy Hochul signed the bill into law on Wednesday.

The new law establishes a 50-foot security perimeter around houses of worship. It specifically targets activities that intentionally obstruct entrances, a measure prompted by increasing protests and harassment outside synagogues in New York City. Law enforcement can extend this perimeter at their discretion, and individuals interfering with access may face a class B misdemeanor charge.

The bill's preamble highlights a rise in anti-religious harassment, noting a significant increase in antisemitic and anti-Islamic crimes in recent years. Specific incidents cited include pro-Hamas calls outside the Young Israel of Kew Gardens Hills, and protests at the Park East Synagogue and Young Israel of New Rochelle. State Senator Sam Sutton, who had previously introduced a buffer zone bill, thanked supporters for advocating for the legislative package.

The United Jewish Appeal Federation of New York welcomed the passage, commending Senators Sutton and Governor Hochul for their leadership in safeguarding the right to worship without harassment. However, journalist Bernadette Hogan reported that some assembly members, while celebrating the budget's passage, criticized New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani. Mamdani had previously vetoed a similar safety perimeter bill for schools, arguing it could broadly impact protests related to ICE, fossil fuels, or Palestinian rights.

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strong leadership in their unwavering effort to help ensure safe access to critical community institutions and safeguard the right to worship free of harassment and intimidation.