Representatives Fischer and Newman Introduce Legislation to Increase Penalties for Interrupting a Religious Service

COLUMBUS-State Representatives Tex Fischer (R-Boardman) and Johnathan Newman (R-Troy) recently introduced legislation to ensure Ohioans can freely practice their religion without fear of disruption, harassment, or violence.

In response to a recent anti-ICE protest that disrupted a church service in St. Paul, Minnesota, the bill will increase the penalty for disturbing a lawful meeting of religious worship from a first-degree misdemeanor to a fifth-degree felony.

"While every American has the right to peacefully protest ICE or any other government entity, they do not have a right to storm into a place of worship and disrupt another American's right to freely practice their religion," said Fischer. "We cannot allow our country to be a place where families fear they may face harassment or see their religious services disrupted by activists attempting to score political points while attending church on a Sunday morning. Our state should not tolerate this behavior and must stand strong in protecting the rights of Ohioans of all faiths to freely practice their religion."

"I will do everything possible to ensure Ohioans' God-given First Amendment right to free exercise of religion is protected along with houses of worship and worshippers," said Newman. "I am glad to join Rep. Fischer sponsoring this important legislation."

The bill will not restrict Ohioans' ability to engage in peaceful protest.

The legislation awaits a bill number and House committee assignment.