Hold Vandals Accountable Act of 2026
- Sponsor
- Rep. Fallon, Pat [R-TX-4]
- Committees
- Judiciary Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jul 2, 2026
Bottom line
The "Hold Vandals Accountable Act of 2026" lowers the monetary threshold for felony charges related to damaging U.S. government property from $1,000 to $500, potentially increasing the severity of penalties for certain acts of vandalism.
What it actually does
This bill amends federal law (18 U.S.C. 1361) to lower the monetary threshold for property damage to U.S. government property that triggers a felony charge. Currently, damage exceeding $1,000 can result in a felony, while damage below that is a misdemeanor. This bill reduces that threshold to $500, meaning damage between $500 and $1,000 that was previously a misdemeanor would now be a felony.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that this bill strengthens accountability for those who damage federal property by ensuring that even moderate levels of damage are treated with appropriate seriousness. They contend that the current $1,000 threshold is outdated and does not adequately deter vandalism, especially given inflation, and that lowering it to $500 will better protect public assets and send a clear message that such acts will not be tolerated.
Opponents contend
Opponents might argue that lowering the felony threshold could lead to an over-criminalization of minor offenses, disproportionately affecting individuals who cause damage just above the new $500 mark. They may contend that it could strain the federal justice system with more felony cases and that existing penalties for misdemeanors are sufficient for damage under $1,000, without the harsher consequences of a felony conviction.
The bill text is extremely short and straightforward, making it very accessible for any reader to understand its direct impact.
Section 2
Amendment to 18 U.S.C. 1361 Regarding Government Property Damage Threshold
This section amends Title 18, Section 1361 of the United States Code, which deals with damage or attempted damage to government property or contracts. Specifically, it changes the monetary value that distinguishes a misdemeanor from a felony offense. Currently, if the damage exceeds $1,000, it is a felony; otherwise, it is a misdemeanor. This bill reduces that threshold to $500, meaning any damage valued at $500 or more would now be considered a felony.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that this change is necessary to reflect the true cost of damage and to ensure that acts of vandalism against federal property are met with serious consequences, regardless of whether the damage slightly exceeds an arbitrary $1,000 threshold. They believe it will deter such acts and protect taxpayer-funded assets more effectively.
Critics contend
Critics might argue that this provision could lead to harsher penalties for relatively minor acts of vandalism, potentially resulting in felony convictions and their associated lifelong consequences (e.g., voting rights, employment) for actions that might not warrant such severity. They may also point to the potential for increased incarceration rates and costs.
Tradeoffs
The provision balances the desire for stricter accountability and deterrence against concerns about over-criminalization and the potential for disproportionately severe penalties for offenses that might otherwise be handled as misdemeanors.