A Montgomery County rabbi is challenging a county law that restricts legally carried firearms within 100 yards of houses of worship, schools, parks, libraries and other public places.

Rabbi Menashe Shapiro told 7News that the law puts synagogues at greater risk by limiting the ability of trained volunteer security members to protect their own congregations.

Shapiro argues that the issue is not only about Second Amendment rights, but also about religious freedom and the Jewish community’s responsibility to provide for its own safety, especially at a time of rising antisemitism.

While the county law includes an exception for hired security, Shapiro says that is not realistic for many shuls, especially those with early morning, late-night and daily minyanim.

Montgomery County officials said they do not comment on pending litigation.