SACRED Act
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To President
- Became Law
Overview
The Safeguarding Access to Congregations and Religious Establishments from Disruption Act (SACRED Act) prohibits individuals from harassing or intimidating people lawfully exercising their First Amendment right to religious freedom within 100 feet of a place of worship. The bill establishes penalties for such conduct, including fines and potential imprisonment, and creates civil remedies for those affected, allowing them to seek injunctive relief and damages. It also empowers the Attorney General and state attorneys general to take legal action against violators.
Key provisions
- Prohibits harassment or intimidation within 100 feet of a place of religious worship.
- Establishes penalties for violating the law, including fines and imprisonment.
- Creates civil remedies for individuals harmed by the prohibited conduct.
- Allows the Attorney General and state attorneys general to initiate lawsuits.
- Defines key terms such as ‘harass,’ ‘intimidate,’ and ‘obstruct’.
- Specifies that the law does not prohibit expressive conduct outside of places of worship.
- Provides for statutory damages of up to $5,000 per violation.
- Allows for civil penalties against respondents.
Who is affected
- Individuals seeking to exercise religious freedom
- Places of religious worship
- Members of the public
- Law enforcement agencies
- The Department of Justice
Notable changes
Bill text
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Sponsors
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17 on record
Primary sponsor
Cosponsors
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