WASHINGTON-Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson cosponsored H.R. 7846, the Halo Act, a bill that would shield federal officers from those who threaten, interfere with, or harass them while conducting official duties. This legislation is sponsored by Rep. Michael Rulli (R-OH).

"Calling yourself a peaceful protestor does not always make you one, especially if your actions include harassing, intimidating, and even physically assaulting federal officers," said original cosponsor Rep. Simpson. "It is common sense to enact criminal penalties for these agitators and establish a buffer zone for the safety of our dedicated law enforcement, particularly during a time when they are facing record-high threats and attacks. Not every federal officer is experienced in crowd control, so when local officers are ordered to stand down, like they were in Minneapolis, while fellow officers urgently need help, tensions escalate and problems arise. I am proud to cosponsor Congressman Rulli's bill to combat these issues, hold agitators accountable, and to shield the brave men and women who serve and protect our communities."

"Our ICE agents and federal immigration officers put themselves in harm's way every single day to enforce our laws and protect our communities," said Rep. Rulli. "The American people voted for law and order in November 2024. They voted for secure borders and for the men and women who enforce our laws to be supported in the line of duty - not harassed, threatened, or assaulted. The Halo Act makes it crystal clear: if you try to intimidate or obstruct federal officers doing their job, there will be consequences."

The Halo Act would establish criminal penalties for individuals who, after being verbally warned, remain within a 25-foot "halo" around a harassed officer. These penalties would apply to anyone interfering with, threatening, or harassing that officer while they are carrying out lawful immigration enforcement duties.

Senator Ashley Moody (R-FL) has introduced companion legislation in the Senate.

The full text of the bill is available here.