H.R. 5411: Sovereign Enforcement Integrity Act of 2025

This bill, titled the Sovereign Enforcement Integrity Act of 2025, aims to restrict State and local law enforcement agencies in the United States from acting on orders or requests from the International Criminal Court (ICC) regarding the arrest or detention of foreign nationals. The key points of the bill include:

Findings and Purpose

The bill outlines several findings:

• The U.S. is not a party to the Rome Statute, which established the ICC.
• The Constitution gives the Federal Government exclusive authority over foreign relations and the treatment of foreign nationals in the U.S.
• Arresting foreign nationals based on ICC requests without federal authorization could harm U.S. foreign policy interests and violate constitutional principles.
• International law enforcement activities should adhere to uniform national standards.

Its purpose is to prevent State and local law enforcement from carrying out any ICC-issued requests or warrants unless the Federal Government expressly allows it through legislation or presidential certification.

Prohibition on State or Local Enforcement of ICC Actions

The bill prohibits officers, employees, or agents of State, territorial, or local governments from:

• Arresting or detaining foreign nationals based solely on requests from the ICC.
• Cooperating with the ICC to facilitate such arrests or detentions.
• Using State resources (funds, personnel, or facilities) to carry out actions related to ICC requests.

However, there are exceptions where these prohibitions do not apply. These exceptions include:

• If Congress passes a law specifically allowing cooperation with the ICC for a particular case.
• If the President certifies to Congress that cooperation with the ICC is necessary for national security and provides written authorization.

Preemption of State and Local Law

The bill will take precedence over any State or local laws, policies, or regulations that might allow actions contrary to this Act's provisions.

Severability

If any part of the Act is found to be unconstitutional, the rest of the Act and its provisions remain effective and applicable to other circumstances.

Relevant Companies

None found.