By Y.M. Lowy

New York City lawmakers are considering a revised bill that would allow the NYPD to create “buffer zones” around houses of worship during protests.

The updated version of the proposal would give police the power to decide, case by case, whether a buffer zone is needed, how large it should be, and how long it should stay in place. An earlier version of the bill called for a set buffer zone of up to 100 feet. The new version removes that fixed distance and instead lets the NYPD make the decision based on the situation.

If a buffer zone is set up, officers would be responsible for putting it in place and informing both protesters and people entering or leaving the house of worship that a restricted area has been established.

The issue has sparked debate in recent months. Pro-Palestinian protests have taken place outside several Shuls, including one in Queens where demonstrators chanted slogans in support of Hamas. 

If the bill passes, the NYPD commissioner would have to submit a detailed plan to the mayor and the City Council speaker for approval. Once approved, the department would have 120 days to put the policy into effect.