H.R. 8451: Prevent the Misuse of Federal Law Enforcement Act
This bill, titled the Prevent the Misuse of Federal Law Enforcement Act
, aims to limit the authority of federal law enforcement agencies in conducting their activities without the consent of local authorities. It specifically addresses the roles of various federal institutions in law enforcement, focusing particularly on their interactions with state and local jurisdictions.
Key Provisions
- Controlled Substances Act Amendment:
- Amends Section 508(a)(5) of the Controlled Substances Act to clarify that federal law enforcement duties designated by the Attorney General must pertain only to investigations related to controlled substances. The amendment explicitly restricts any law enforcement duties that do not arise from or supplement drug-related investigations.
- U.S. Marshals Service Limitations:
- Modifies Section 566(c) of Title 28, United States Code, to require that the U.S. Marshals Service can only deputize local or state law enforcement officers upon a request from the chief executive of that respective entity. This requirement also extends to not deputizing other federal law enforcement officers without a similar request.
- Homeland Security Authority Adjustment:
- Changes Section 1315(b) of Title 40, United States Code, to ensure that the Secretary of Homeland Security cannot designate additional employees of the Department for law enforcement duties related to protests on federal property without a request from the local chief executive. This provision aims to prevent the unilateral use of federal law enforcement in areas where protests are happening.
In summary, the bill seeks to enhance the authority of local and state governments regarding law enforcement operations, ensuring that federal agencies cannot operate independently in jurisdictions without proper consent. The amendments are designed to create a clearer boundary around federal law enforcement powers, particularly in contexts that involve local issues and civil demonstrations.
Relevant Companies
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Sponsors
2 bill sponsors
Actions
2 actions
| Date | Action |
|---|---|
| Apr. 22, 2026 | Introduced in House |
| Apr. 22, 2026 | Referred to the Committee on the Judiciary, and in addition to the Committees on Energy and Commerce, and Transportation and Infrastructure, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. |
Corporate Lobbying
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