To amend title 18, United States Code, to include rioting in the definition of racketeering activity.
Summary
H.R. 4620 aims to amend Title 18 of the United States Code to include rioting in the definition of racketeering activity. This would allow federal law enforcement to prosecute individuals involved in rioting under racketeering statutes. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives by Ms. Van Duyne and Mr. Nehls and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would broaden the scope of racketeering laws to include rioting. This could lead to increased federal prosecution of individuals involved in such activities. It may also deter individuals from participating in riots due to the enhanced penalties associated with racketeering charges.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially reduces the incidence of rioting by increasing the severity of penalties.
- Provides law enforcement with additional tools to prosecute and dismantle organized riot activity.
- May deter individuals from engaging in violent protests or riots.
- Could lead to safer communities and reduced property damage.
- Could help to maintain public order and domestic tranquility.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for misuse of racketeering charges against peaceful protesters.
- May disproportionately affect marginalized communities who are more likely to participate in protests.
- Could chill freedom of speech and assembly if individuals fear being labeled as participants in racketeering activity.
- May lead to increased incarceration rates.
- Potential for overreach by federal law enforcement.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutional alignment is complex. While the government has a legitimate interest in maintaining public order, the First Amendment protects the rights to freedom of speech and assembly. The definition of "rioting" and its application under racketeering statutes would need to be carefully scrutinized to ensure it does not infringe upon these rights. The amendment could be seen as an infringement of the right to assemble peaceably, as protected by the First Amendment, if it is applied too broadly.
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).