In the near future, we will introduce a bill that amends Section 3307 of Title 18 (Institutional Vandalism) to enhance the existing statute and make several technical changes meant to give a district attorney expanded options for combating vandalism of sacred spaces such as faith institutions, cemeteries, or memorials.
 

Over the past few years, we’ve seen churches, synagogues, mosques, and other places of worship targeted deliberately by those who wish to express hate. In 2024, Congregation Mikveh Israel in Old City endured multiple acts of vandalism, including arson, hateful graffiti, and a break-in attempt. Similarly, the Masjidullah Mosque, previously a target, was defaced once again earlier this year. These incidents are part of a troubling pattern, with faith communities continuing to face intimidation and harm. 
 

This rhetoric has consequences. These acts or threats are meant to intimidate entire religious groups, and an inadequate response from government allows them to develop into further violent acts of hate. This is unacceptable in our nation, where we pride ourselves on our foundation of free exercise of religion.
 

It is our responsibility to appropriately respond to those individuals who think it is acceptable to attack or threaten individuals or institutions because of what they believe. We can do that now. Please join us in sponsoring this legislation.