Agudath Israel of America has announced its support for the bipartisan Pray Safe Act, introduced by Senators Rob Portman (R-OH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH). This act, if passed, will help faith-based organizations and houses of worship access information on safety and security best practices, federal grants, and training programs.

“One of the most effective ways of protecting houses of worship and other faith-based institutions is in the gathering of as much information as possible and in learning from the experiences of others,” said Rabbi Abba Cohen, vice president for government affairs and Washington director of Agudath Israel of America.

“With these valuable tools in hand, religious communities can devise plans and strategies that will best utilize equipment, personnel, procedures, and other mechanisms to better secure our facilities. Agency coordination on the federal level and the creation of an information clearinghouse will go far in achieving this vital lifesaving goal,” he continued.

“We commend Senators Rob Portman and Maggie Hassan for putting the Pray Safe Act forward and pledge our support and our commitment to working together with them to have this legislation enacted.”