ASSEMBLYWOMAN ADDIE RUSSELL SPONSORS LEGISLATION TO PROTECT MILITARY FUNERAL SERVICES FROM PROTESTORS
Two measures sponsored by Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell (D-Theresa) would protect funeral services from disruptive demonstrations. The legislation would establish a 300 foot buffer zone around services beyond which demonstrators couldn’t disturb mourners (A7698) and empower local governments to require permits for any demonstrations taking place within 1,000 feet of the services (A7697).
Two measures sponsored by Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell (D-Theresa) would protect funeral services from disruptive demonstrations. The legislation would establish a 300 foot buffer zone around services beyond which demonstrators couldn’t disturb mourners (A7698) and empower local governments to require permits for any demonstrations taking place within 1,000 feet of the services (A7697).
“Recently, several radical groups have grabbed national attention and risen to infamy for heartlessly protesting military funerals,” Addie Russell said. “While these protestors have the right to free speech, they most certainly do not have the right to intimidate and threaten the well-being of funeral attendees, including the family members of the deceased. These bills would build on current law and give grieving families and friends a necessary buffer from those who would harass them.”
“There is a time and place to express ideological differences and funeral services are not it.” Assemblywoman Russell said. “New York
-30-