Congress Introduces SCARRED Act to Curb Harassment Near Religious Sites
US Hindu temple protection bill
A new bill just hit Congress that’s designed to protect Hindu temples and other places of worship. Lawmakers Tom Suozzi and Max Miller are behind this legislation, pushing for tighter security at religious sites, especially those used by minority groups.
They’re calling it the “Safeguarding Access to Congregation and Religious Establishments from Disruption Act.” The idea’s pretty clear—threats and harassment targeting religious communities have been rising, so they say it’s time for Congress to step up.
If this bill passes, anyone who tries to intimidate or harass people within 100 feet of a place of worship could face federal charges. The penalties look tough, too. First-timers might get up to a year in prison, and repeat offenders could be locked up for three years. Victims are also given the right to sue for damages.
Groups like the Hindu American Foundation have been vocal about growing attacks against Hindu temples across the country. That’s left a lot of minority faith communities feeling unsafe when they go to worship.
Reports from the Anti-Defamation League show hate incidents are climbing fast—thousands of cases were logged in 2024 against religious groups. The American Jewish Committee says people are even changing day-to-day routines because they’re worried.
But lawmakers are stressing that this bill won’t block peaceful protests or interfere with First Amendment rights. They’re aiming for a balance: keeping communities safe without shutting down free speech. Plenty of religious and human rights organizations are standing behind the proposal.
US Hindu temple protection bill
