Protect and Serve Act of 2025
Congress Proposes Life Sentences for Criminals Who Target Law Enforcement Officers
Stalled
No legislative action in over 90 days.
Legislative Progress
Key Points
- Congress is considering a bill that would make it a federal crime to intentionally hurt or try to hurt a law enforcement officer because of their job. This includes police officers, investigators, and prison guards at local, state, and federal levels.
- If someone causes serious injury to an officer, they could face up to 10 years in federal prison. If the attack results in a death or involves kidnapping, the person could be sentenced to life in prison.
- The federal government would step in if the crime involves crossing state lines, using a weapon that moved between states, or if the attack happens on federal property. This adds a layer of federal law on top of existing state laws.
- To ensure the federal government doesn't overstep, the U.S. Attorney General must personally approve these charges. They will consider if the state's original sentence was enough and if a federal trial is in the public's best interest.
Impact Analysis
Personal Impact
How this policy affects specific groups of people
Milestones
Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.
Introduced in House
The bill was officially filed and given a number. It now enters the legislative queue.
Votes
No votes have been recorded for this legislation yet.
Related News
3 articles
Police officers across U.S. face crisis as ambush shootings rise: 'It just happened out of nowhere'
Analysis of data shows a 60% jump in shootings against police since 2018. The Fraternal Order of Police is advocating for the 'Protect and Serve Act' to create a new federal law against knowingly assaulting law enforcement as ambush-style attacks reach record levels in 2025.
THE KIRBY FILE: Sen. Thom Tillis parts company with Trump over some Jan. 6, 2021, presidential pardons
Sen. Thom Tillis highlighted his reintroduction of the Protect and Serve Act, which would enhance penalties for criminals who target law enforcement. The Senator emphasized that violence against law enforcement is never acceptable, regardless of the source.
Over-Federalization: Federal Intrusion Into State Criminal Law
Critics argue the Protect and Serve Act, reintroduced in 2025, federalizes conduct already criminalized by states. Opponents like Rep. Chip Roy have raised concerns about the expansion of federal power and the potential for over-criminalization under the Commerce Clause.
Source Information
Document Type
Congressional Bill
Official Title
Protect and Serve Act of 2025
Data Sources
Sponsor
Cosponsors
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