Federal Halo Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Malliotakis, Nicole [R-NY-11]
- Committees
- Judiciary Committee (primary)
- Last action
- May 13, 2026
Bottom line
The bill establishes a 15-foot "safety buffer zone" around federal law enforcement officers, criminalizing intentional obstruction, threats, or harassment within that zone after a verbal warning.
What it actually does
This bill, the "Federal Halo Act," amends title 18 of the U.S. Code to create a new federal crime for obstructing federal law enforcement officers. Specifically, it makes it unlawful for a person, after receiving a verbal warning, to knowingly approach or remain within 15 feet of an officer with the intent to impede their duties, threaten them, or harass them. Violators could face up to 5 years imprisonment, a fine, or both.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue this bill is necessary to enhance the safety and operational effectiveness of federal law enforcement officers who often face dangerous and disruptive encounters while performing their duties. They contend that establishing a clear buffer zone and criminalizing intentional interference will deter individuals from escalating confrontations, reduce the risk of harm to officers, and ensure officers can perform their lawful functions without undue obstruction or harassment. This measure is presented as a vital tool for protecting those who protect the public.
Opponents contend
Critics might argue that this bill could potentially infringe upon First Amendment rights, particularly freedom of speech and assembly, by criminalizing proximity to officers, even if the intent is not inherently violent. They may contend that existing laws already address assault, battery, and direct obstruction of justice, making this new provision overly broad or redundant. Concerns could also be raised about potential for misuse, leading to arbitrary arrests or disproportionate penalties for individuals who may not fully understand the "15-foot" rule or who are engaged in legitimate, albeit close, observation or protest.
The bill is very short and straightforward, allowing for a quick and easy understanding of its provisions.
Section 2(a), adding new section 1522 to title 18, United States Code.
Creation of Federal Offense for Obstructing Law Enforcement Activities within a Buffer Zone
This provision makes it a federal crime for any person to knowingly approach or remain within 15 feet of a federal law enforcement officer who is engaged in their lawful duties, after receiving a verbal warning not to approach. The intent behind this action must be to impede the officer's ability to perform their duty, threaten them with physical harm, or harass them. "Harass" is defined as intentionally causing substantial emotional distress without legitimate purpose.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision provides a crucial layer of protection for federal officers, allowing them to maintain a safe distance from individuals who might intend to interfere or cause harm. They believe it will reduce the likelihood of physical confrontations and ensure officers can focus on their duties without being unduly distracted or threatened, thereby improving public safety outcomes.
Critics contend
Opponents might contend that this provision could be broadly interpreted and used to suppress legitimate public oversight, protest, or journalistic activities near federal law enforcement. They may argue that the "15-foot" rule, combined with the "intent to harass" clause, could lead to subjective enforcement and potentially criminalize actions that do not pose a direct physical threat, thereby chilling free speech and assembly rights.
Tradeoffs
The provision balances the need to protect law enforcement officers and ensure their operational effectiveness against concerns regarding civil liberties, particularly the rights to free speech, assembly, and public oversight of government actions. It seeks to prevent interference while potentially creating new restrictions on public interaction with officers.