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Bill

HR 7846

Halo Act

119th Congress Introduced by Brian Babin and 5 co-sponsors

HR 7846 creates criminal penalties for obstructing immigration enforcement activities, potentially expanding federal obstruction law to specifically criminalize interference with ICE operations.

Introduced in House
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HR 7846

Legislative bill overview

HR 7846 proposes to amend federal criminal law to create a new crime specifically targeting obstruction of immigration enforcement activities. The bill would establish criminal penalties for individuals who interfere with, impede, or obstruct officers or agents conducting immigration enforcement operations.

Why is this important

This legislation directly affects how federal immigration enforcement is conducted and could expand criminal liability for protest activities, legal defense representation, or other interference with enforcement actions. The bill reflects ongoing debates about immigration policy enforcement and the balance between law enforcement operations and civil liberties protections.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition scope: The bill's language regarding what constitutes "obstruction" could be broad enough to criminalize protected activities like peaceful protest, legal advice, or recording enforcement actions, raising First Amendment concerns.
  • Chilling effect on legal representation: Critics may argue it could discourage defense attorneys or advocates from fully representing or assisting immigrants during enforcement operations.
  • Existing legal framework: Federal law already contains multiple obstruction statutes; opponents may question whether this targets immigration enforcement specifically or duplicates existing law, and if so, whether that reflects policy bias.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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