A newly introduced House bill would create a safety buffer protecting federal law enforcement officers from threats, harassment and interference while they carry out their duties.
Making it illegal to come within 15 feet of federal agents when engaged in law enforcement action, the legislation aims to fend off protesters or agitators who disrupt operations.
The HALO Act, proposed by GOP Rep. Nicole Malliotakis of New York, makes it illegal for anyone who has been told to stay back to knowingly come within 15 feet of a federal law enforcement officer to interfere, obstruct, harass or threaten the officers.
Violators could face a fine and up to five years in prison.
“During National Police Week and every week, I’m proud to back the blue by introducing legislation to better protect federal law enforcement officers from harassment, threats, and interference while they are doing their jobs,” said Ms. Malliotakis.
Republicans wanted to include local and state police in the legislation, but that it would be legally difficult.
“We wanted to include them, but we don’t have constitutional authority to impose such requirements on local and state police, but if local police are working alongside federal officers, they are covered,” Ms. Malliotakis told The Washington Times.
Her bill is companion legislation to the HALO Act introduced in November by Sen. Ashley Moody, a Florida Republican.
ICE officers have routinely found themselves under physical attacks by anti-ICE protesters in deep blue states and cities, attempting to obstruct the federal officers from doing their jobs.
Contact the author
Please read our comment policy before commenting.