Legislation seeks to prevent restrictions on worship amid public health crises
New Jersey Bill Would Protect Religious Services During Emergencies
A New Jersey lawmaker has proposed a bill that would stop the state from restricting religious services during emergencies, years after pandemic-related limits on gatherings sparked legal disputes across the country.
The legislation, introduced by Assemblyman Gregory McGuckin (R-Toms River), would prevent the governor from limiting worship during a state of emergency or public health crisis. It also bars officials from restricting travel to and from houses of worship or imposing penalties on religious institutions for holding services.
Religious organizations would still need to follow general health and safety rules, such as occupancy limits, but emergency powers could not be used to single out or shut down worship gatherings. The bill would revise New Jersey’s emergency management laws that cover natural disasters and disease outbreaks.
Supporters say the measure is meant to protect First Amendment rights and prevent religious practices from being curtailed during crises. It does not block enforcement of neutral, broadly applicable rules but draws a clear line against any emergency order that specifically targets worship.
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