H.R. 4834: Guarding and Administering Trespass Enforcement, Controlling Restricted Areas, and Stopping High-risk Encroachment Recidivism and Sabotage Act

This bill, known as the Guarding and Administering Trespass Enforcement, Controlling Restricted Areas, and Stopping High-risk Encroachment Recidivism and Sabotage Act (or GATE CRASHERS Act), aims to create new legal penalties for unauthorized access to facilities managed by the Department of Defense (DoD). Here’s a breakdown of the bill's main components:

Purpose

The primary goal of the bill is to strengthen the laws regarding trespassing on DoD property. It specifically defines unauthorized access to those properties that are clearly marked as closed or restricted.

Key Provisions

• Definition of Unauthorized Access: The bill allows for penalties against individuals who enter DoD property without proper authorization, particularly if that property is marked as restricted.
• Criminal Penalties: There are specific penalties set out based on the number of offenses:
  • First Offense: A fine, imprisonment for up to 180 days, or both.
  • Second Offense: A fine, imprisonment for up to 3 years, or both.
  • Third or Subsequent Offenses: A fine, imprisonment for up to 10 years, or both.

Impact on Law Enforcement

This legislation may impact how law enforcement agencies operate in terms of monitoring and enforcing access to restricted areas owned by the DoD. It would provide clearer legal grounds for prosecuting individuals who trespass on such properties.

Table of Sections Amendment

The legislation also includes an amendment to the table of sections in Chapter 67 of Title 18 of the United States Code, adding the section that addresses unauthorized access to Department of Defense facilities.

Relevant Companies

None found