No Bounties on Badges Act
- Sponsor
- Sen. Scott, Rick [R-FL]
- Committees
- Judiciary Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Dec 11, 2025
Bottom line
The bill establishes a new reward program to incentivize the public to provide information that helps apprehend individuals who solicit violence against federal law enforcement officers.
What it actually does
This bill amends Chapter 204 of Title 18, United States Code, specifically section 3071, to authorize the Attorney General to offer monetary awards. These awards are for individuals who provide information leading to the arrest or conviction of those who offer bounties or pecuniary compensation for harming or killing U.S. law enforcement officers. The authorization also extends to information leading to the arrest or conviction for conspiring or attempting to commit such acts, or for preventing or frustrating them.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that this bill provides an essential tool to protect law enforcement officers by deterring those who would incite violence against them and by encouraging the public to report such dangerous activities. They contend it sends a strong message that targeting law enforcement will not be tolerated and will be actively investigated, thereby enhancing officer safety.
Opponents contend
While direct opposition to protecting law enforcement is rare, critics might raise concerns about the potential for broad interpretation of 'offering a bounty' or 'pecuniary compensation,' or the possibility of unintended consequences related to free speech, though the bill's focus on 'harming or killing' provides a clear boundary. Some might also question the effectiveness of such a reward system as a primary deterrent compared to existing laws.
The bill text is very short and easy to understand, allowing ample time for informed evaluation.
Section 2(a)(2)
Authorization of Awards for Information on Targeting Law Enforcement Officials
This section expands the existing authority of the Attorney General under 18 U.S.C. 3071 to offer rewards. Specifically, it allows rewards for information leading to the arrest or conviction of individuals who offer money or other compensation to harm or kill U.S. law enforcement officers. It also covers conspiracies, attempts, and actions that prevent such acts from occurring, aiming to deter violence against federal officers.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision is a crucial step to safeguard law enforcement officers by creating a powerful incentive for individuals to come forward with information about those who seek to harm them. They believe it will enhance investigative capabilities and deter potential attackers, thereby making communities safer.
Critics contend
While direct opposition to protecting law enforcement is rare, some might argue that existing laws are sufficient to prosecute those who incite violence, and that adding a reward system might introduce complexities or ethical concerns regarding informants, or could be seen as an overreach if broadly interpreted.
Tradeoffs
The bill balances the need to protect law enforcement and deter violence with potential considerations regarding the scope of 'offering a bounty' and the administration of such a reward program, including the potential for false claims or misuse of the system.