No Rogue Jurors Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Letlow, Julia [R-LA-5]
- Committees
- Oversight and Government Reform Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Apr 23, 2026
Bottom line
The 'No Rogue Jurors Act' aims to prevent federal taxpayer money from funding any organization that encourages jurors to disregard legal instructions and evidence in federal and D.C. court proceedings.
What it actually does
This bill prohibits the use of federal funds, including grants, contracts, awards, or any other financial assistance, for organizations, schools, or entities that promote jury nullification. Specifically, it targets activities that encourage individuals to seek jury service in federal or District of Columbia courts with the intent to vote contrary to the evidence or applicable law, including promoting the deliberate act of voting to acquit a defendant regardless of whether the elements of the charged offense have been established.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that this bill is crucial for upholding the integrity of the judicial system and ensuring that justice is administered based on facts and established law, rather than personal biases or political agendas. They contend that taxpayer funds should not be used to support activities that undermine the rule of law and the impartiality of jury trials, which are fundamental to a fair legal process.
Opponents contend
Critics might argue that this bill could be overly broad and potentially infringe upon free speech or academic freedom, particularly for organizations that engage in legitimate discussions about the historical role and power of juries, including the concept of jury nullification. They may express concern that the language could be interpreted to stifle advocacy for criminal justice reform or educational efforts that explore the complexities of jury functions.
The bill text is exceptionally short and straightforward, allowing for a complete understanding in less than a minute, providing ample time for evaluation.
Section 2
Limitation on Federal Funds for Organizations That Promote Jury Nullification
This provision explicitly prohibits any federal funds from being used to provide financial assistance to organizations, schools, or entities that conduct training, produce materials, or engage in outreach to encourage individuals to seek jury service in federal or District of Columbia courts with the intent to vote contrary to the evidence or applicable law. It specifically includes activities promoting the deliberate act of voting to acquit a defendant regardless of established facts, commonly known as jury nullification, and mentions designations like 'Equity & Root Cause Jury Training' as examples of prohibited activities.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that this provision is vital for maintaining the integrity and impartiality of the American judicial system. They believe that allowing federal funds to support activities that encourage jurors to disregard their oath and the law undermines the rule of law and the fairness of trials. Preventing such funding ensures that taxpayer money is not used to subvert justice.
Critics contend
Critics might contend that this provision could be overly broad, potentially chilling legitimate discussions about the historical role and power of juries, including their ability to act as a check on unjust laws. They may argue that while direct encouragement to disregard law in a specific trial is problematic, broader academic or advocacy discussions about jury rights should not be subject to federal funding prohibitions, raising concerns about free speech and academic freedom.
Tradeoffs
This provision navigates the tension between upholding the strict application of law by juries and the historical concept of jury nullification as a potential safeguard against perceived injustice. It prioritizes judicial integrity and adherence to legal instructions over the organized promotion of jury discretion to disregard law, which some view as a critical check on government power.