Cryan-Sweeney Bill to Protect Against Bias Attacks Becomes Law

TRENTON – Legislation authored by Senator Joe Cryan and Senate President Steve Sweeney to provide additional funding to improve safety for churches, synagogues, mosques and other non-profit facilities by protecting against bias-related threats and attacks was signed into law today by Governor Phil Murphy.

The law, S-4347, will increase from $1 million to $2 million funding for the “New Jersey Nonprofit Security Grant Pilot Program,” which provides grants to protect places of worship and other vulnerable organizations from violence.

“We have witnessed a disturbing increase in the number of incidents of hate and bigotry based on race, religion and ethnicity,” said Senator Cryan (D-Union), who previously served as Union County Sherriff. “We can’t ignore these threats and we should not tolerate any acts of violence or intimidation. This is a daily challenge for houses of worship, community centers and other non-profit institutions that are most vulnerable. This funding will help improve security that protects the facilities, their staffs and the people they serve with equipment and personnel.”

“No individual, group or organization should be left vulnerable to any threats or acts of violence because of their race, religion or heritage,” said Senator Sweeney (D-Gloucester/Salem/Cumberland). “Places of worship and any other locations that bring people together will be better protected with this support. We won’t allow bias or hate to intimidate anyone from practicing their religion or honoring their ethnic pride.”