""AB 2664 is about protecting the dignity of every Californian who wants to practice their faith without running a gauntlet of fear just to walk through the door," said David Bocarsly, Jewish California's executive director."
""Every Californian deserves to practice their faith without fear," Bauer-Kahan stated, describing the measure as a 'common-sense' way to prevent intimidation and obstruction."
""Supporters say the bill is needed amid a rise in antisemitism and a wave of demonstrations outside synagogues, including at Los Angeles' Wilshire Boulevard Temple and Adas Torah.""
""Legal and political debates over such measures center on how to balance public protest with religious access, with courts upholding some 'bubble zone' laws but civil liberties advocates warning against overly broad restrictions.""
California Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan introduced AB 2664, the 'Safe Worship Zone' bill, to establish a 100-foot buffer around religious institutions. This legislation aims to protect congregants from protests, particularly in light of rising antisemitism. Supporters, including Jewish California, emphasize the need for safety, citing that 26% of Jewish Americans feel unsafe attending Jewish institutions. Similar legislative efforts are occurring in New York, highlighting the ongoing debate between public protest rights and religious access.
Read at The Forward
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