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Senator Shannon Grove expressed deep disappointment today after the California Senate Public Safety Committee voted down SB 1070 on a party-line vote. The bill would have strengthened protections for houses of worship by increasing penalties for intentional disruptions, intimidation, and targeted interference.
“I am disappointed that my colleagues across the aisle did not support my measure to protect sacred spaces,” said Senator Shannon Grove. “I hoped the California Legislature would take a strong stand with people of faith and uphold their constitutional right to worship in peace and safety. Despite the committee voting the bill down, our fight to protect houses of worship will march on.”
Senator Grove, in partnership with The American Council, authored SB 1070 to safeguard religious communities across California. The legislation would have amended Penal Code Section 302 to make serious or repeated intentional disruptions of worship services a “wobbler” offense, allowing prosecutors discretion to charge them as misdemeanors or felonies.
“This vote does not make California safer, more just, or more free,” said Tanner DiBella, President of The American Council. “It leaves churches, synagogues, mosques, temples, and other houses of worship more vulnerable. It sends a message that the concerns of faith communities can be ignored and reflects a troubling unwillingness to defend religious liberty with real action.”
“Sacred spaces matter,” DiBella added. “They are places of prayer, service, healing, and hope. Every Californian should be alarmed when lawmakers refuse to protect them. Thank you, Senator Grove, for your leadership and courage in standing up for all religious communities.”
Watch the full press conference here.
Click here for photographs provided by the California Senate Republican Caucus.