Agudath Israel of America welcomes the federal proposal instructing the Department of Justice to allocate a minimum of $5 million toward security for religious institutions in the proposed FY2026 budget package. If passed, this funding will be directed to state and local law enforcement agencies to provide security for religious institutions that face heightened threats.

This funding comes amid a sustained rise in antisemitism across the United States, with Jewish communities experiencing increased levels of harassment, vandalism, threats, and violence. Shuls, schools, and community institutions are now targets that need enhanced security and law enforcement to ensure that they can continue to operate safely.

“Security is not a luxury for religious institutions, it is a necessity,” said Rabbi Yossie Charner director of Congressional affairs at Agudath Israel of America. “We are deeply grateful to the House and Senate Appropriations Subcommittees on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies for recognizing the real and present threats facing religious communities and for taking concrete steps to help protect them.”

While this allocation is a significant step forward, the security needs of Jewish institutions far exceed what is available. Agudath Israel urges Congress to increase the minimum funding level and if passed will advocate for the DOJ to allot more than the minimum amount required.

Alongside its work at the federal level, Agudath Israel of America continues to advocate for state and local governments to make funding for the security of religious institutions a priority. While several states have stepped forward to supplement federal programs, many have yet to do so. Agudath Israel expresses its appreciation to those states that have demonstrated leadership in this area and urges others to recognize the urgency of these security needs and allocate appropriate resources.

Jooish News

Jooish News