Kol Yisroel advocates returned to Albany on March 17 for the fifth time in less than two months, continuing an aggressive push for stronger protections for houses of worship across New York State.
The latest visit centered around building support for Assembly bill A10548, newly introduced legislation that would prohibit protests within 100 feet of a house of worship.
The bill was introduced by Assemblymember George Alvarez (D-78) following ongoing discussions with Kol Yisroel. The organization first engaged with Alvarez’s office on February 4 and has remained in close contact, advocating for concrete measures to address growing concerns over disruptions near places of worship.
On Tuesday, Kol Yisroel—led by Shmulie Hartstein along with a group of young advocates—spent the day meeting with key lawmakers to gain additional co-sponsors and secure a Senate sponsor to advance the legislation.
Among those they met with were Senators John Liu (D-16), Jessica Scarcella-Spanton (D-23), Robert Jackson (D-31), and Jeremy Cooney (D-56), as well as Assemblymembers Charles Lavine (D-13), Khaleel Anderson (D-31), Robert Carroll (D-44), and Al Stirpe (D-127).
During the meetings, Assemblymember Charles Lavine confirmed he would co-sponsor the bill, marking a significant step forward in its progression.
The day concluded with a follow-up meeting with Assemblymember Alvarez, who emphasized that passing A10548 remains a top priority for him this legislative session
The bill has already secured co-sponsorship from Assemblymembers Kalman Yeger (D-41) and Simcha Eichenstein (D-48).
Kol Yisroel leaders emphasized that their continued presence in Albany is making a difference, as momentum builds behind the proposal. After months of persistent advocacy and repeated trips to the State Capitol, the push for a 100-foot protection zone around houses of worship is now advancing through the legislative process.
