Stop Coyotes’ Oppression and Organized Trafficking, and Ensuring Safety Act; Stop COYOTES Act
Summary
The Stop COYOTES Act aims to amend Title 18 of the United States Code to increase punishment for offenses involving children and fentanyl. It introduces stricter penalties for crimes against children committed near schools, playgrounds, and other child-centric areas. The act also enhances penalties for offenses related to fentanyl trafficking and mandates information sharing between federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies regarding human and drug trafficking along the southern border.
Expected Effects
The Act will likely lead to increased incarceration rates for offenders convicted of crimes against children and fentanyl trafficking. It could also improve information sharing and coordination among law enforcement agencies, potentially disrupting trafficking networks. The enhanced penalties may deter some individuals from committing these offenses.
Potential Benefits
- Increased protection for children by deterring crimes near schools and playgrounds.
- Stronger penalties for fentanyl-related offenses, potentially reducing the availability of this dangerous drug.
- Improved information sharing among law enforcement agencies, leading to more effective efforts to combat human and drug trafficking.
- Enhanced border security through increased monitoring and reporting of unlawful activities.
- Potential reduction in crime rates due to stricter penalties and increased law enforcement coordination.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased incarceration rates could strain prison resources and budgets.
- The focus on punishment may not address the root causes of crime, such as poverty and lack of opportunity.
- Enhanced penalties may disproportionately affect marginalized communities.
- The increased information sharing could raise privacy concerns if not properly managed.
- The Act's effectiveness depends on the availability of resources and the willingness of agencies to cooperate.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The Act aligns with the Constitution's goals of establishing justice and ensuring domestic tranquility. The increased penalties for crimes against children and fentanyl trafficking fall under Congress's power to regulate interstate commerce and protect vulnerable populations. The information sharing provisions are subject to the Fourth Amendment's protections against unreasonable searches and seizures, requiring careful implementation to avoid constitutional violations.
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).