Due to the efforts of a determined group of Assembly members and Senator Sam Sutton, legislation was secured in the New York State budget establishing 50-foot buffer zones around houses of worship, Jewish Community Centers, yeshivas, and schools. The measure is intended to ensure that Jewish New Yorkers seeking to pray, attend classes, or participate in community activities can do so free from threats, harassment, and intimidation.

The legislation was drafted in response to a wave of protests outside Jewish institutions that too often escalated into intimidation and violence. Similar legislation aimed at protecting schools had previously passed the New York City Council, but was vetoed by Mayor Zohran Mamdani, leaving young Jewish children and their families vulnerable to harassment and serious safety concerns.

The legislation adopted as part of the State budget is designed to strengthen the safety and security of Jewish New Yorkers and send a strong message to the Mayor that the Jewish community is not afraid to stand up. The measure creates criminal misdemeanor penalties for individuals who harass or intimidate others within 50 feet of the protected areas.

“What we witnessed in Kew Gardens Hills this January was despicable, with agitators terrorizing our neighborhood. This new 50-foot buffer zone law makes clear that those who seek to harass or threaten our community will keep their distance or face real consequences. At a time when too many excuse antisemitic intimidation, we in the Assembly are standing up to those like Mayor Mamdani whose actions harm our very way of life,” said Assemblyman Sam Berger.

“Peaceful protest is a constitutional right guaranteed to every individual, but when demonstrations target and threaten New Yorkers simply because they are exercising their faith, government has a responsibility to intervene and protect its citizens,” said Assemblyman Simcha Eichenstein. “I am proud to have been involved in drafting and securing the passage of this legislation. I thank my fellow Assembly members, especially Speaker Carl Heastie, for recognizing the importance of this legislation. This is a major victory for the Jewish community and for New Yorkers of every religion.  No New Yorker should ever be forced to choose between their personal safety and attending religious services.”

“At a time when Jewish communities are experiencing an alarming rise in antisemitism, intimidation, and violence, government has an obligation to ensure that every New Yorker can enter a house of worship, school, or community center without fear. Expanding these protections sends a clear message that New York will not tolerate any hate, and I thank my legislative partners for recognizing the urgency of this moment and taking meaningful action to strengthen the safety of our community,” said Assemblywoman Nily Rozic.

"Just a few days ago, my district witnessed a vile terror campaign launched against a Midwood shul, followed by a march of masked thugs through our quiet residential streets," said Assemblyman Kalman Yeger. "The hate is real and we see it every day. This bill will provide some measure of protection to peaceful New Yorkers of all faiths who want nothing more than to be left alone at their schools, houses of worship and community institutions. I'm grateful that Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie made this a priority."

“I want to sincerely thank my colleagues who worked tirelessly to get this important legislation across the finish line. They refused to settle for empty statements or window dressing, and instead fought for meaningful protections that will make a real difference for our communities. Their determination, partnership, and unwavering commitment helped ensure that every New Yorker can worship, learn, and gather in safety and without intimidation,” said Assemblyman Aron B. Wieder.

“Seven months of hard work and deep personal commitment have led to this extraordinary moment. As someone who has spent his life in service to our faith communities, this legislation is a promise kept to every New Yorker who simply wants to pray in peace and security,” said Senator Sam Sutton.