Oklahoma Passes Law to Protect Worship Services from Disruption

New state law imposes fines and jail time for intentionally disturbing religious gatherings

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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In response to a recent incident in Minneapolis where protesters barged into a church and terrified parishioners, the state of Oklahoma has passed a new law to protect worship services from intentional disruption. The law, Senate Bill 743, imposes fines and jail time for those who disturb religious assemblies, with harsher penalties for repeat offenders.

Why it matters

This law aims to safeguard the constitutional right to freedom of religion and worship in Oklahoma, following a national trend of increased hostility and vandalism against churches. With concerns about uneven federal enforcement, the state is taking action to ensure its citizens can practice their faith without fear of disruption or attack.

The details

Senate Bill 743 makes it a crime to intentionally disrupt a religious worship service. A first offense carries a fine of up to $500 and/or up to one year in county jail, while a second offense is classified as a felony with a maximum fine of $1,000 and up to two years in prison. The law aims to protect the constitutional rights of worshippers while respecting free speech and lawful protest.

  • In 2025, Oklahoma State Sen. Todd Gollihare and Rep. Mark Lawson introduced SB 743 to protect worship services.
  • This month, in February 2026, SB 743 passed the Oklahoma Senate and was quickly signed into law by the Governor.

The players

Todd Gollihare

Oklahoma State Senator who introduced SB 743 to protect worship services.

Mark Lawson

Oklahoma State Representative who introduced SB 743 to protect worship services.

Pam Bondi

Attorney General who was directed by President Trump to bring charges against the rioters who invaded the church in Minneapolis.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow the rioters from the Minneapolis church incident to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This new Oklahoma law demonstrates how states are stepping up to protect religious freedoms and the right to worship, in the face of growing concerns about uneven federal enforcement and increasing hostility towards churches across the country.