NYC Council Passes Bills Requiring NYPD Protest Plans Near Worship Sites, Schools

The New York City Council passed two bills on Thursday requiring the Police Department to develop plans for managing protests near houses of worship and educational institutions, aiming to prevent obstruction, intimidation, or injury while safeguarding free speech rights. The measures, part of a larger legislative package to address rising hate incidents, passed with varying levels of support, setting the stage for possible action by Mayor Zohran Mamdani.

The bill covering houses of worship cleared the 51-member Council by a 44-5 margin, with one abstention, achieving the two-thirds majority needed to override a potential veto. The companion bill for schools, colleges, and universities passed more narrowly, 30-19, with one abstention, leaving it vulnerable to a mayoral veto. Both pieces of legislation direct Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch to create and publicly share strategies within 90 days for responding to demonstrations that could disrupt access. These plans must include provisions for security perimeters only when necessary, such as around entrances, and emphasize communication with community leaders, protesters, and the public.

The initiative stemmed from a disruptive...