To ensure the safety of people attending religious services, Assemblyman Ron Dancer has introduced legislation allowing houses of worship to have an armed person on site to protect attendees. The bill (A1695) allows a church, mosque, or synagogue to establish a security program by selecting a qualified person to carry a concealed handgun during worship and prayer services.
“The horrific mass shooting at a Texas church last year is a grim reminder that no public place, including churches, synagogues and mosques, is safe from attack,” said Dancer (R-Ocean). “It’s unconscionable that innocent people attending religious services have to worry about their safety in these sacred places. Sadly, that’s our new reality. Allowing qualified and trained armed personnel on site will help protect worshippers.”
The person selected may be required to participate in a firearms training course with certified instructors, and can serve as a volunteer or be paid for their services. The bill does not prohibit places of worship from hiring an armed security officer or allowing a law enforcement officer or other person entitled to carry a firearm at all times in this state from serving as the person selected for the security program.
A mass shooting at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas, in November left 26 people dead and 20 others injured. The shooter was shot twice by a civilian as he exited and was later found dead in his motor vehicle following a high speed chase.
dancer rocks
they should be allowed to have more than one person, depending on size of worshipers…
terrible picture – no holster/trigger is exposed
Good let’s have some women security guard in a women area
@TLS Is there any information available estimating when this can be passed?
what about vulnerable schools
There are many shuls in 5 towns & a few in brooklyn that currently have mispallelim that are packing
How about we let concealed carry for everyone
Dont allow it, MANDATE it! If you have a crowd over a certain amount of people you are required to protect them. & In this day and age it means with a loaded gun.