BLUE Act
- Sponsor
- Sen. Scott, Rick [R-FL]
- Committees
- Judiciary Committee (primary)
- Last action
- May 13, 2026
Bottom line
The BLUE Act aims to enhance the safety and operational security of Federal law enforcement officers by criminalizing the malicious sharing of their personal and location-based information.
What it actually does
This bill amends Section 119 of title 18, United States Code, to expand protections for Federal law enforcement officers. It criminalizes the sharing of personally identifiable information about a Federal law enforcement officer with the intent to physically obstruct, impede, interfere with, or retaliate against their lawful duties, investigations, operations, or official proceedings. Additionally, it broadens the definition of 'personally identifiable information' for these officers to include any physical location where they are or are reasonably expected to be present, whether on or off duty.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue this bill is crucial for protecting Federal law enforcement officers from doxing, harassment, and physical harm, thereby ensuring they can perform their duties without fear of retaliation. It provides a necessary legal tool to deter those who would seek to undermine law enforcement operations or endanger officers and their families, addressing a growing threat to public safety personnel.
Opponents contend
Critics might argue that while protecting officers is important, this bill could be overly broad, potentially chilling legitimate public discourse or journalistic activities related to law enforcement accountability. Concerns could be raised about the scope of 'physical location' and 'intent to obstruct,' which might be interpreted broadly to suppress information that is in the public interest or to target critics of law enforcement.
The bill text is extremely short and easy to read, making it accessible for quick review by any interested party.
Section 2(1) amending 18 U.S.C. 119(a)
Criminalizing Sharing of Officer Information with Intent to Obstruct or Retaliate
This provision adds a new condition under which sharing personally identifiable information of a Federal law enforcement officer becomes a crime. Specifically, it prohibits sharing such information with the intent to physically obstruct, impede, interfere with, or retaliate against, or to aid another in such actions, any lawful duty, investigation, operation, or official proceeding involving that officer. This expands the scope of malicious intent covered by the existing statute.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this directly addresses the growing threat of doxing and targeted harassment against law enforcement, which can jeopardize officers' safety and hinder their ability to perform critical public safety functions. It provides a clear legal deterrent against those who seek to undermine law enforcement through intimidation and violence.
Critics contend
Critics might contend that the 'intent to obstruct' language could be broadly interpreted, potentially criminalizing actions that are not directly threatening but are intended to hold officers accountable or expose misconduct. They might argue it could chill legitimate investigative journalism or public oversight of law enforcement activities.
Tradeoffs
This provision balances the critical need to protect law enforcement officers from harm and intimidation against concerns about potential impacts on transparency and public accountability of law enforcement actions, particularly regarding the scope of 'intent'.
Section 2(2) amending 18 U.S.C. 119(b)
Including Physical Locations in Protected Information for Officers
This provision expands the definition of 'personally identifiable information' specifically for Federal law enforcement officers to include 'any physical location at which such officer is or is reasonably expected to be present (whether on or off duty).' This means that sharing an officer's home address, regular commute, or other predictable locations with the prohibited intent to obstruct or retaliate would now be criminalized under the statute.