Protect and Respect ICE Act; PRICE Act
Summary
The Protect and Respect ICE Act (PRICE Act) aims to amend Title 18 of the United States Code to increase criminal penalties for individuals who assault, resist, or impede officers or employees of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The bill proposes doubling the maximum term of imprisonment and adjusting the maximum fine for such offenses.
This legislation specifically targets actions against ICE personnel, seeking to provide enhanced legal protections for these federal officers and employees. The proposed changes would apply to violations of Section 111 of Title 18.
The bill was introduced in the Senate by Mr. Schmitt and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary for further consideration.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the PRICE Act would lead to stricter punishments for those who commit violent acts against ICE officers and employees. This could potentially deter such actions and provide a safer working environment for ICE personnel.
The increased penalties may also lead to more individuals being incarcerated for longer periods, impacting the justice system and potentially increasing costs associated with incarceration.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced protection for ICE officers and employees through increased penalties for assault, resistance, or impeding.
- Potential deterrent effect on individuals considering violent actions against ICE personnel.
- Reinforcement of the importance of respecting and protecting law enforcement officers.
- May lead to a safer working environment for those serving in ICE.
- Could improve morale and effectiveness of ICE agents.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for disproportionate sentencing and increased incarceration rates.
- Concerns about the fairness of applying harsher penalties specifically to offenses against ICE officers compared to other law enforcement personnel.
- Possible perception of bias in the justice system.
- May exacerbate tensions between communities and ICE.
- Could lead to increased resistance during ICE operations due to fear of enhanced penalties.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutionality hinges on whether the enhanced penalties are applied fairly and consistently with the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment. Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to establish laws necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers, which could include protecting federal officers.
The Eighth Amendment, which prohibits cruel and unusual punishment, could be relevant if the enhanced penalties are deemed excessive for the crimes committed. The bill must also adhere to due process requirements under the Fifth Amendment.
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).