Bills of Congress by U.S. Congress

Preventing Authoritarian Policing Tactics on America’s Streets Act

Summary

The "Preventing Authoritarian Policing Tactics on America’s Streets Act" aims to limit the use of federal law enforcement officers in crowd control situations. It mandates clear identification for officers engaged in crowd control and restricts their authority to federal property unless a state and local government jointly request assistance or the Insurrection Act is invoked. The bill also requires public notice of federal law enforcement deployments for crowd control.

Expected Effects

This act would change how federal law enforcement agencies respond to protests and civil unrest. It could lead to increased accountability and transparency in federal law enforcement activities during crowd control situations. It also potentially limits federal intervention in state and local matters.

Potential Benefits

  • Increased accountability of federal law enforcement officers through mandatory identification.
  • Limits on federal intervention in local crowd control situations, preserving state and local autonomy.
  • Enhanced transparency through public notice requirements for federal deployments.
  • Protection of individuals' rights to protest and assemble without fear of unmarked federal apprehension.
  • Prevents the use of unmarked vehicles for civilian apprehension during protests.

Potential Disadvantages

  • Potential delays in federal response to urgent situations due to restrictions on deployment.
  • Possible increase in costs associated with compliance and reporting requirements.
  • Reduced federal support for state and local law enforcement during large-scale events or crises, if requests are not properly coordinated.
  • May create confusion or conflict between federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies regarding jurisdiction and authority.
  • Could be perceived as hindering law enforcement's ability to maintain order during riots or violent protests.

Constitutional Alignment

The bill aligns with the First Amendment by protecting the rights to assemble and protest. It also touches on federalism principles, balancing federal authority with state and local autonomy. The limitations on federal law enforcement powers could be seen as reinforcing the Tenth Amendment, reserving powers not delegated to the federal government to the states.

Impact Assessment: Things You Care About

This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).