Hochul and City Councilman Eye “Buffer Zones” Around Houses of Worship
New York Governor Kathy Hochul is reportedly considering supporting legislation that would create buffer zones around houses of worship in New York State. The move follows a recent incident at the Park East Synagogue, where anti-Israel protesters disrupted services during an event hosted by Nefesh B’Nefesh.
State Assembly Member Micah Lasher and State Senator Sam Sutton have introduced this measure following the December 3 protest near the synagogue. Demonstrators carrying Palestinian flags chanted slogans including “Death to the IDF” while attending a Jewish community gathering organized by Nefesh B’Nefesh, an organization assisting Jewish immigration to Israel.
Hochul has indicated support for restricting rallies in proximity to houses of worship and sensitive locations, though she hasn’t endorsed any specific bill. A spokesperson noted her willingness to examine such measures seriously without referencing external sources like CNN or the New York Post.
The incident at Park East Synagogue drew criticism from Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani’s office through a spokesperson who stated he believes every New Yorker should have freedom of access to religious institutions free from intimidation, while also noting disagreement with the protesters’ tactics violating international norms regarding public demonstrations near sacred places. Lasher welcomed this potential legislative action as common-sense legislation ensuring safe passage around houses of worship.
This planned legislation comes amidst other recent political developments affecting state governance structures and policies within New York State.
