Arizona Senator Martha McScally (R) has recently announced that she will be filing a bill that makes acts of domestic terrorism a federal crime, giving federal law enforcement agencies like the FBI the ability to charge terror suspects accordingly.
McSally's was motivated to draft the measure came from the recent mass shootings in El Paso, TX, and Dayton, OH, where 32 people were killed by two individuals with political motivations.
The U.S. Congress is in recess during August, so it’s hard to pin down members for comment, as was the case with Florida Senator Marco Rubio, who has advocated for new “red flag” laws and supports tougher domestic terrorism laws.
Rubio’s fellow colleague from Florida, Sen. Rick Scott (R), who also supports tougher domestic terrorism laws and “red flag” laws, also couldn’t be reached for a direct response to McSally's proposed bill, but the Floridian was able to attain remarks from his legislative office.
Scott’s office said that he would be reviewing “any proposals” or bills presented in the U.S. Senate, adding that Scott remained focused on promoting “red flag” laws.
“Senator Scott will review any proposals that come before the U.S. Senate,” said Press Secretary Sarah Schwirian “He is focused on making sure that our schools and communities are safe and that those struggling with mental health issues or threatening to harm themselves or others cannot use a gun.
McSally’s bill would do the following:
- Gives federal law enforcement authorities more by allowing them to charge suspects with acts of domestic terror.
- Criminalizes violent and destructive acts with political motives.
- Focuses resources to combat domestic terrorism.
- Ensures that the victims of terrorism are properly recognized.
