NEWS RELEASE: Senator Moody’s Halo Act to Protect Federal Officers from Threats, Harassment, and Violence While Doing Their Job Garners Support in the U.S. Senate

WASHINGTON, D.C.-Today, Senator Ashley Moody's Halo Act to protect federal immigration officers from harassment and targeted violence while doing their jobs is garnering support in the Senate-with Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), and Rick Scott (R-FL) announcing they are signing on as cosponsors.

Senator Ashley Moody said, "As Florida's Attorney General, I helped make Florida the most pro-law enforcement state in the nation-I'm now taking that fight to D.C. The recent incidents of federal officers being harassed or targeted while simply carrying out their responsibilities are alarming and cannot be tolerated. No one serving this nation should be intimidated or obstructed from doing their job. That's why I'm so glad my Halo Act is gaining support, with more of my colleagues signing as cosponsors and saying 'No more.' Protecting our officers from threats is not optional-it is essential to the rule of law."

Senator Marsha Blackburn said, "Assaults and violence against ICE officers have surged by more than 1,150% compared to last year, and left-wing activists across the country will do anything to keep these men and women from enforcing the rule of law. The Halo Act would make it illegal to physically harass and intimidate a federal immigration officer and prevent radical activists from interfering with law enforcement's work to keep our communities safe."

Senator Rick Scott said, "No member of our law enforcement should fear harassment or intimidation while doing their job of upholding the law. Our Halo Act ensures they can do their jobs without interference or threats, especially at a time when these dangers are rapidly increasing. I'm proud to join Senator Moody on this commonsense measure to protect those who selflessly protect our nation."

The Halo Act is modeled after Florida's Halo Law which establishes a 25-foot buffer zone around first responders to ensure their safety and allow them to do their jobs without interference or distraction.

Specifically, Senator Moody's Halo Act would:

• Make it illegal for anyone-after being told to stay back-to knowingly come within 25 feet of a federal immigration officer who is doing their job if their intent is to:
  • Get in the way or interfere with the officer's work,
  • Threaten the officer with physical harm, or
  • Harass the officer.
• Anyone who breaks this rule could face a fine, up to five years in prison, or both.

Read bill text here.

Read more about the Halo Act…

Senator Moody Condemns Attack on National Guard Members and Urges Senate to Pass Halo Act to Protect Federal Officers from Threats