H.R. 7136: Special Operator Protection Act of 2026

This bill, known as the Special Operator Protection Act of 2026, aims to amend Title 18 of the United States Code to enhance the protection of special operations personnel within the Armed Forces and related federal employees. The key provisions of the bill include:

Definitions

The bill defines specific terms related to its provisions:

• Covered person: Includes members of the special operations forces, Department of Defense employees involved in sensitive activities, and federal law enforcement officers working with special operations forces.
• Restricted personal information: Refers to sensitive details about an individual, including their name, image, home address, date of birth, social security number, contact information, and biometric data. This information must be connected to the individual's employment.
• Immediate family: Includes family members of the covered individuals.

Prohibited Actions

The bill makes it illegal to knowingly disclose the restricted personal information of a covered person or their immediate family if the intent is:

• To threaten or intimidate them, or
• To incite a crime of violence against them or facilitate such actions.

Penalties

Violating these prohibitions can lead to significant legal consequences:

• Individuals can face fines, imprisonment for up to five years, or both.
• If the violation leads to death or serious bodily injury, penalties can include longer imprisonment or life sentences, in addition to fines.

Technical Amendments

The bill also includes necessary technical amendments to ensure proper incorporation into existing law, specifically adding a new section that outlines the protection of special operations personnel.

Purpose

The main intent of this legislation is to safeguard the personal information of those who serve in special operations roles against public disclosure that could lead to threats or violence, thus aiming to enhance their security and that of their families.

Relevant Companies

None found