Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt has signed Senate Bill 743 into law, increasing penalties for individuals who intentionally disrupt worship services. Under the new law, a first offense can result in up to a $500 fine or one year in county jail, while subsequent offenses are treated as felonies with fines up to $1,000 and/or two years in prison, according to the Oklahoma Senate.
Sen. Lonnie Paxton, R-Tuttle, and Sen. Todd Gollihare, R-Kellyville, supported the legislation, with Paxton stating, "No one should face harassment, feel threatened or be intimidated by groups who are intentionally trying to disrupt a worship service." The law also requires protesters to stay at least eight feet away from worshippers within a 100-foot radius unless given express permission, following incidents at churches in Minnesota and at Gollihare’s own church, as reported by the Oklahoma Senate.
Senator Gollihare praised Senate Bill 743, which took effect immediately, saying, "Governor Stitt’s signature on this legislation sends a clear message - Oklahomans can worship without fear of disruption." The bill was approved to address disruptions in places of worship and reinforce the ability to hold religious services without interference, as stated by the Oklahoma Senate.
