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Synagogue protests in New York prompt new law protecting houses of worship

Synagogue protests in New York prompt new law protecting houses of worship


Synagogue protests in New York prompt new law protecting houses of worship

NEW YORK — Blocking someone from entering a house of worship, or acting in a way that makes worshippers entering the building fear for their safety, is now a crime in New York under a law approved after a series of raucous demonstrations outside synagogues.

The law, signed by Gov. Kathy Hochul, also expressly allows police to establish 50-foot security perimeters outside houses of worship where protests are not allowed.

“Every New Yorker should be able to enter their house of worship and practice their religion without fear,” Hochul, a Democrat, said in a statement.

The governor signed the law after a series of protests outside synagogues hosting real estate events promoting emigration to Israel.

Some Jewish leaders have called the demonstrations antisemitic.

During one protest outside a synagogue in Queens, activists chanted support for Hamas terrorists.

The new law creates a misdemeanor criminal charge for people who interfere with access to houses of worship.