574.035. Disrupting a house of worship — penalty
It’s illegal to disturb people or services at a place of worship
If someone purposely disrupts a church, mosque, synagogue, or other religious place—or threatens or interferes with people there—they can face criminal charges that get more serious with each offense.
1. This law is called the “House of Worship Protection Act.”
2. A “house of worship” includes any building or place used for religious worship, instruction, or other religious activities—such as churches, mosques, synagogues, or prayer spaces.
3. A person commits disrupting a house of worship if they:
- (1) Intentionally and unreasonably disrupt a house of worship by using offensive language, acting rudely or indecently, or making loud noise—either inside or close enough to interrupt services; or
- (2) Try to hurt, scare, or block anyone from practicing their religion or getting into a place of worship—by using force, threats, or physical obstruction.
4. Penalties for disrupting a house of worship:
- First offense: Class B misdemeanor
- Second offense: Class A misdemeanor
- Third or later offenses: Class E felony
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