California Legislature passes creating buffer zones around houses of worship, barring hate speech from voter guides

The California Legislature recently passed two bills aimed at enhancing safety and civility. AB 2664, the Safe Worship Zone Act, creates a 100-foot buffer zone around houses of worship, prohibiting individuals from approaching others within eight feet without consent to protest, distribute literature, or harass. David Bocarsly of Jewish California stated, "Every Californian, no matter their faith, should be able to walk to their place of worship without fear of being surrounded or intimidated." Additionally, AB 1853 restricts content in official voter guides, limiting candidate statements to qualifications and barring attacks, false claims, or hateful content. This bill was introduced after an antisemitic statement appeared in a 2026 primary voter guide. Governor Gavin Newsom has until September 30 to sign or veto both bills.