SACRED Act

Sponsor: Thomas R. Suozzi (Democratic-NY)April 9, 2026

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Introduced

In Committee

Passed One Chamber

Passed Both Chambers

Signed into Law

Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.

New federal rules would protect people from harassment near places of worship.

This bill would make it a federal crime to harass or intimidate people within 100 feet of a church, mosque, or other religious building. It aims to protect individuals exercising their religious freedom. Victims and government attorneys would be able to take legal action.

What Would Change

If this bill passes, it would create new federal crimes for harassment or intimidation within 100 feet of a place of religious worship, with penalties including fines up to $25,000 and imprisonment up to life. It would also allow individuals, religious organizations, and government attorneys to file civil lawsuits for damages and orders to stop harmful behavior.

Key Provisions

Bans intimidating or obstructing the passage of people within 100 feet of a place of worship if it causes reasonable fear for their physical safety.
Bans intentionally approaching and harassing people within 8 feet of them, if they are within 100 feet of a place of worship and trying to exercise religious freedom.
Sets federal criminal penalties, including fines up to $25,000 and imprisonment up to life, depending on the offense and whether it resulted in injury or death.
Lets individuals and religious organizations sue for damages, attorney fees, or a set amount of $5,000 per violation.
Lets the U.S. Attorney General and state attorneys general sue to protect the public, seeking damages and civil penalties up to $25,000.

View on Congress.gov

HR 8239 · 119th Congress · April 9, 2026 · AI Summary by gemini-2.5-flash · 9/10

SACRED Act

What Would Change

Key Provisions

Lobbying Activity