Interfaith Coalition of Religious Leaders Backs California Senate Bill 1070 to Protect Worship Services From Disruption
The coalition includes leaders from the Islamic, Jewish, LDS, and Evangelical communities
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SACRAMENTO, CA (February 25, 2026) — A broad coalition of religious leaders across California announced today its support for Senate Bill 1070, a measure that strengthens penalties for intentionally disrupting religious worship services. The coalition includes clerical leaders from the Jewish, Islamic, Evangelical, and LDS faith communities.
Senate Bill 1070, introduced by Senator Shannon Grove and sponsored by The American Council, updates California Penal Code Section 302 by allowing severe, intentional disruptions of worship gatherings to be charged as a felony, with increased penalties that can include a fine up to five thousand dollars and county jail time.
“Every faith tradition understands what is at stake when a sacred gathering is deliberately disrupted,” said Tanner DiBella, President of The American Council. “Houses of worship should be places of reverence, safety, and peace. Senate Bill 1070 is a measured step that protects the free exercise of religion by ensuring that intentional harassment and intimidation during worship carries meaningful mitigation.”
Faith leaders emphasized that the bill is not about policing disagreement or restricting lawful expression, but about addressing deliberate conduct that interferes with the order and solemnity of worship services.
"Freedom to worship is a cornerstone of our constitutional rights, protecting every person’s ability to practice their faith openly and without government interference." — Pastor Erwin Guevara
According to the bill text, existing law already makes intentional disturbances of worship a crime, and Senate Bill 1070 adds the option of felony penalties in addition to existing misdemeanor penalties. The bill is currently moving through the legislative process.
The coalition encouraged California lawmakers to advance Senate Bill 1070 and called on civic leaders across the state to stand together in support of the freedom to worship without disruption.
To learn more about Senate Bill 1070 and see the growing list of coalition members, visit www.protectworship.com.
About The American Council
The American Council is a voice for religious communities in public policy. They work to build leaders of moral clarity, courage, and conviction in public discourse.
Tanner DiBella