Legal Insights

A Practical, Legally Defensible Guide for Faith Communities Introduction Across the United States, First Amendment auditors have increasingly targeted houses of worship, synagogues, churches, mosques, gurdwaras, temples, and other faith centers by filming congregants, parking lots, and entrances. While auditors claim constitutional rights, houses of worship are private property and retain full authority to restrict

Nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship, community service groups, arts organizations, and charitable programs, frequently lease space in public buildings such as schools, municipal centers, and city-owned facilities. These arrangements are lawful, common, and often mutually beneficial. Yet they can become complicated when protesters object to the nonprofit’s presence or attempt to disrupt activities. Understanding

Image Courtesy of TopKit™. What California Nonprofits Need to Know About AB 2260 California Assembly Bill 2260, signed into law on September 27, 2022 and effective January 1, 2023, establishes new safety requirements for certain newly constructed buildings with large occupancy capacities. Commonly referred to as the Tactical Response to Traumatic Injuries Act, AB 2260

Many houses of worship are exploring ways to strengthen safety for their congregations. For some, this includes the use of armed volunteers. While Florida law does not specifically address “armed volunteers” in religious institutions, several statutes and legislative measures provide important guidance. Understanding these laws is essential for faith leaders, boards, and volunteers who want

Florida’s churches are at the center of a new debate over faith, safety, and regulation. Senate Bill 52, introduced by Senator Gaetz for the 2026 session, proposes sweeping changes to how houses of worship can provide armed security. Designed to ease the burden of state licensure requirements, the measure could reshape the way congregations protect

In Florida’s ongoing debate over faith, safety, and regulation, a new proposal is stirring conversation. House Bill 95, introduced on October 7, 2025, seeks to exempt certain volunteers who provide armed security at churches and religious organizations from the state’s usual licensure requirements. Just days later, on October 14, the measure was routed to the

Across Texas, churches and synagogues are wrestling with a pressing question: how do you keep congregations safe without crossing the line into law enforcement? Recent updates to state law and DPS regulations have carved out a unique space for volunteer security teams, ordinary members of faith communities who step forward to protect their own. From