Greg Marting proposes bill to protect churches from demonstrations

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WDEF) – Lawmaker Greg Martin has proposed a bill in Tennessee in reaction to a protest in Minneapolis.

His bill would strengthen state protections in Tennessee for places of religious worship.

It would create a state offense for interfering with religious activities and services.

The penalty would be up to six months in jail and a fine.

It would also allow law enforcement to respond to protests at such services.

One of the protests over ICE in Minneapolis disrupted a church service where an ICE officials was attending.

“Religious liberty includes the right to gather and worship in peace without being intentionally disrupted or intimidated,” said Martin. “This bill sets a clear standard in Tennessee law that deliberately interfering with a worship service is not acceptable conduct and protects people of all faiths, ensuring there are clear state-level consequences for those who choose to obstruct or disturb religious gatherings. Peaceful expression is protected, but purposeful disruption inside a place of worship crosses the line.”