""Commissioner Tisch has concerns with the initial drafting of the bills, and she is working closely with the speaker's office to ensure that the language of the bill maintains the NYPD's flexibility to both protect houses of worship and facilitate First Amendment rights," NYPD spokesperson Delaney Kempner said in a statement to City and State."
"But she added that protesters "have the right to say things that are incredibly painful to hear," saying, "I understand that pain, deeply and personally.""
"She said the legislation "doesn't restrict anyone's right to free speech," but does "restrict intimidation and harassment as someone enters or exits a house of worship.""
NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch raised concerns about the initial drafting of proposed buffer-zone legislation that would limit protests up to 100 feet from houses of worship. Tisch is working with the City Council speaker's office to amend language so the NYPD retains flexibility to protect houses of worship while facilitating First Amendment rights. Tisch did not specify details of her concerns or whether the mayor was involved. Tisch apologized after a Park East Synagogue protest, saying police efforts "fell short," while reaffirming that protesters retain painful but protected speech. Multiple left-leaning and left-wing groups have mobilized in opposition on free-speech grounds.
Read at Jewish Telegraphic Agency
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