H.R. 4476: Preventing Authoritarian Policing Tactics on America’s Streets Act

This bill, known as the Preventing Authoritarian Policing Tactics on America's Streets Act, aims to limit the role of federal law enforcement officers in crowd control situations, such as protests and demonstrations, while also establishing certain requirements and restrictions regarding their conduct.

Key Provisions of the Bill

1. Definitions

The bill defines several terms, including:

• Federal law enforcement officer: An employee or officer of the federal government authorized to engage in law enforcement functions.
• Law enforcement function: Activities related to the prevention, detection, investigation, prosecution, or incarceration of law violations.
• Member of an armed force: Individuals in the U.S. Armed Forces or National Guard.

2. Identification Requirements

All federal law enforcement officers or armed forces engaged in crowd control must display identifying information. This includes:

• Visible display of their agency and last name or unique identifier.
• For military personnel, display of rank and identifying information.

Additionally, these officers cannot cover up this identifying information or use unmarked vehicles during crowd control activities.

3. Limitations on Crowd Control Authority

Federal law enforcement and military personnel are restricted to conducting crowd control only in the following areas:

• On federal property or in immediate vicinity (including sidewalks and streets adjacent to federal properties).

Exceptions are made if:

• They receive a written request for assistance from a state governor and local government head.
• Engagement occurs under the Insurrection Act of 1807.

4. Limitations on Arrest Authority

Federal law enforcement or armed forces cannot arrest individuals if they are acting in violation of the identification and crowd control limitations set by the bill.

5. Public Notification

Agencies must provide public notice within 24 hours after deploying personnel for crowd control. This notice must include:

• Date of deployment.
• Number of officers present in specific locations.
• Description of the mission.
• Location and custody details of any detained civilians.
• A copy of any written request for assistance, if applicable.

Relevant Companies

None found.