S. 1873: Maintaining Authority and Restoring Security to Halt the Abuse of Law

This bill, known as the MARSHALS Act, aims to transfer the United States Marshals Service from the executive branch to the judicial branch of the federal government. The key elements of the legislation are as follows:

Transfer of Authority

The bill redesignates a section of Title 28 in the United States Code, establishing the United States Marshals Service as a bureau within the judicial branch. Here are the main changes:

• The Director of the United States Marshals Service will be appointed by the Chief Justice of the United States, in consultation with a newly established Board.
• The Director can be removed by the Board.
• United States marshals for each judicial district will be appointed by the Chief Justice, also in consultation with the Board.
• Marshals will serve a term of four years but can continue until a successor is appointed.

Board Responsibilities

The bill establishes a Board to oversee the United States Marshals Service. Its responsibilities include:

• Setting general goals and objectives for the Service to enhance its efficiency and effectiveness.

Assistance and Powers

The United States Marshals Service will have enhanced powers and responsibilities, including:

• Providing personal protection for federal jurists, court officials, witnesses, and individuals facing threats that impact the judicial process.
• Assisting in law enforcement as requested by the Attorney General, which includes investigating fugitive matters, handling cases of unregistered sex offenders, and assisting in recovering missing children.

Technical and Conforming Amendments

The bill includes various technical amendments to ensure consistency with the new structure of the United States Marshals Service, including updates to chapter organization and references throughout the legislation.

Vacancies and Appointments

The process for filling vacancies within the Marshal's office will be revised so that the Chief Justice is responsible for appointing a marshal to serve out a remaining term if a vacancy arises.

Funding and Expenses

The bill outlines provisions related to the expenses of the United States Marshals Service, reinforcing that its operations are to be funded appropriately through the judicial branch.

Implementation Timeline

The bill does not specify an implementation timeline, but it will require a transition period to establish the new governance structure and processes.

Relevant Companies

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