Bill · H.R. 8796· House(119-HR-8796)
Federal Halo Act
- Introduced
- 5/13/2026
- Last activity
- 5/13/2026 — Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.
- Sponsored by
- Nicole Malliotakis
- Cosponsors
- - 3 - 0
- Introduced
- In Committee
What this bill would do
This bill, known as the "Federal Halo Act," aims to amend title 18 of the United States Code. It seeks to establish a safety buffer zone to protect certain Federal law enforcement officers. The legislation introduces a new criminal offense for obstructing law enforcement activities. Specifically, it targets individuals who ignore verbal warnings to stay away from officers performing legal duties. This includes staying within a 15-foot distance with specific harmful intents.
Yes
Does this change how police departments operate?+5
The bill enhances officer safety by establishing a legal buffer zone against harassment and physical threats.
The opposite· 3 of 5
Would immigrants be better off under this?-3
New federal criminal prohibitions regarding interaction with law enforcement may create additional legal risks for immigrant populations.
Would households on low incomes be better off under this?-2
The new criminal penalties and potential imprisonment could disproportionately impact lower-income individuals who interact more frequently with federal law enforcement.
Would Black Americans be better off under this?-2
The imposition of new criminal penalties for proximity violations could increase legal risks for heavily policed communities.
Who it would affect, and how
Potential Positive Impacts for People
-
Protection for Federal officers: The bill creates a safety buffer by making it unlawful to approach or remain within 15 feet of an officer after a warning, which aims to protect officers engaged in the lawful performance of their duties (Section 2(a)(b)).
-
Prevention of harassment and threats: By criminalizing actions intended to harass or threaten officers with physical harm, the bill seeks to reduce intentional emotional distress and physical interference (Section 2(a)(b)(2-3)).
Potential Negative Impacts for People
-
Criminal penalties and imprisonment: Individuals found in violation of these new rules could face significant punishments, including fines and imprisonment for up to 5 years (Section 2(a)(b)(c)).
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New restrictions on proximity: People may face legal consequences for being within 15 feet of a Federal law enforcement officer if they have received a verbal warning and are deemed to have certain intents (Section 2(a)(b)).
Groups and Interests Ranking
Every group the model scored this bill for, from -10 to +10. Hover a score for the reason it gave.
- Demographic And Interest Groups
- Good For Immigrants-3Good For African Americans-2Good For Low Income Households-2Good For People With Disabilities-2
- Social Issues And Justice
- Improves Policing Reform+5
- Governance And Ideology
- Improves Due Process-2
- 8/27/2026
- 1 Cosponsor added.
- 5/13/2026
- Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.
- 2 Cosponsors added.
- Introduced in House
Mike EzellRepublican · Mississippi
Michael LawlerRepublican · New York
John McGuireRepublican · Virginia