hold on there's just too much going on in Congress lmao...
Makes harassment near religious worship a federal crime.
Mr. Suozzi (D-NY), Mr. Miller (R-OH)
Introduced in the House, awaiting committee review.
This bill, called the SACRED Act, proposes to make it illegal to harass or intimidate people going to or from a place of religious worship, within 100 feet of the building. It was introduced by Representatives Suozzi, a Democrat from New York, and Miller, a Republican from Ohio. It is currently in the House Judiciary Committee for review, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives.
Introduced Apr 9, 2026
The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on April 9, 2026. It has been referred to the House Judiciary Committee, which must consider, amend, and approve the bill before it can be put to a vote by the full House. If passed by the House, it would then move to the Senate for their consideration, and ultimately to the President to become law.
If this bill becomes law, you might see a decrease in disruptive behavior targeting people near religious worship locations. Individuals engaging in certain harassment or intimidation within 100 feet of a religious site could face federal fines or jail time. Additionally, this law would allow affected individuals, religious organizations, the U.S. Attorney General, and State Attorneys General to file civil lawsuits against those violating these rules, seeking damages or court orders to stop the behavior. The bill also clarifies that it does not prohibit peaceful, protected expressive conduct.
Supporters Say
Supporters argue the bill protects individuals' constitutional right to religious freedom by ensuring safe access to places of worship.
Critics Say
Critics might raise concerns about how the bill's provisions could be applied and whether it unnecessarily duplicates existing laws.
Those in favor of the SACRED Act would highlight the importance of protecting people from intimidation and harassment when practicing their faith or attending religious services. They believe this measure is necessary to safeguard the First Amendment right to religious freedom. While the bill includes language to protect constitutional free speech, some might question the necessity of a new federal law, suggesting that existing state and local laws or current federal protections might already address these issues.