Months after protesters stormed a Minnesota church, turning a sacred space into a scene of chaos, Louisiana is taking decisive action to shield its own congregations from similar threats. Gov. Jeff Landry (R) has signed two bills designed to safeguard the sanctity of worship and ensure that prayer and reflection are not interrupted by intimidation or disorder.
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The first measure, HB 294, sponsored by Rep. Gabe Firment (R-La.), strengthens existing trespassing laws to give churches, synagogues and other places of worship clear authority to quickly remove disruptive individuals from their property. This legislation equips religious leaders and security volunteers with stronger legal tools to act decisively to prevent minor disturbances from escalating into full-blown takeovers.
The second bill, HB 86, sponsored by Rep. Laurie Schlegel (R-La.), ramps up consequences for intentional disruptions. It adds a mandatory 30-day minimum jail sentence to disturbing-the-peace charges when they occur at houses of worship. By drawing a firm line against deliberate interference, the law aims to deter activists or agitators who might bring drama, protests or intimidation into sacred spaces.
The goal is straightforward: keep services peaceful, safe and focused on faith rather than fear — all while respecting the constitutional rights that allow Americans to gather and worship freely. Both bills reached Landry’s desk on May 13 and were signed into law on May 21. They are expected to take effect later this year.
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EDITOR’S NOTE — This story was written by Sarah Holliday and originally published by Decision Magazine.
