New York lawmakers propose banning protests outside houses of worship following pro-Palestinian demonstration

A group of New York state legislators introduced a proposal on Wednesday aimed at prohibiting demonstrations outside houses of worship and reproductive health clinics. The move follows a recent pro-Palestinian protest outside a major Manhattan synagogue that drew criticism over Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdanis handling of the situation.

The proposed legislation would update New Yorks current buffer zone rules to explicitly forbid protests within 25 feet of entrances to religious institutions or clinics. The restriction would also cover parking areas, additional entrances, and driveways.

State Assemblyman Micah Lasher, a Democrat representing parts of Manhattans Upper West Side, told CNN that the bill was partly inspired by the demonstration at Park East Synagogue last month. This isnt about banning protests, Lasher said. Its about ensuring that people entering a house of worship or a reproductive care facility can do so without facing obstruction.

The protest at Park East Synagogue coincided with an event hosted by Nefesh BNefesh, a nonprofit assisting North American Jews moving to Israel. Demonstrators organized by the Palestinian Assembly for Liberation-AWDA NY/NJ gathered outside, citing Nefeshs website content about Israeli settlements in the West Bank. Around 200 participants chanted slogans including Death to the IDF and globalize the intifada, phrases some interpret as calls to violence.

Mamdani faced criticism for his initial response, which condemned the protestors language but also referenced international law violations concerning Israeli settlements. His office later clarified his commitment to protecting Jewish spaces.

Lasher, who is competing in a primary to succeed US Rep. Jerry Nadler, emphasized that the legislation is designed to withstand legal challenges related to free speech and protest rights under the First Amendment. He described the bill as establishing a modest buffer zone that balances free expression with religious freedom. The legislation respects constitutional protections while providing law enforcement with new tools to safeguard the rights of all New Yorkers, he added.

The bill is co-sponsored by State Senators Liz Krueger, Sam Sutton, and Assemblymember Nily Rozic.

Author: Harper Simmons