[snip]
“Our men and women in uniform put their lives on the line every day to defend communities across the country and keep us safe,” Moody said in a statement. “That is why I am working with Senator Schmitt to double the penalty for these violent attacks. Let’s pass the PRICE Act today and ensure that we have our officers’ backs, while they protect ours.”
Senator Schmitt, who is spearheading the legislation alongside Moody, framed the bill as a necessary countermeasure to anti-ICE sentiment.
[snip]
The Halo Act: Establishing a Buffer Zone
In addition to the PRICE Act, Senator Moody introduced separate legislation aimed at curbing harassment of federal officers during operations. Known as the Halo Act, the bill seeks to amend Title 18 of the United States Code to create specific criminal penalties for obstructing immigration enforcement activities.
[snip]
The legislation outlines a “25-foot rule.” Under the proposed law, it would be illegal for an individual to remain within 25 feet of a federal immigration enforcement officer after being warned, if their intent is to:
- Impede or interfere with the officer’s duties;
- Threaten the officer with physical harm; or
- Harass the officer.
The bill defines harassment as conduct serving “no legitimate purpose” that intentionally causes “substantial emotional distress.” Violators of the Halo Act would face fines and up to five years in federal prison.
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* Original Article:
https://www.tampafp.com/florida-missouri-senators-move-to-double-penalties-for-attacks-on-ice-agents-as-assaults-spike/