Florida Senators Rick Scott (R) and Ashley Moody (R), alongside Tennessee Senator Marsha Blackburn (R), introduced the “HALO Act,” which establishes criminal penalties for anyone who obstructs, threatens, or harasses federal immigration enforcement officers while they are on duty.
“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,” Scott said in a press release. “We owe these men and women not only our gratitude, but also every possible safeguard as they put themselves in harm’s way to keep our communities and our borders secure.”
Senator Moody confirmed her commitment to protecting immigration officers not just in Florida but nationwide.
“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,” Moody said.
In recent months, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) law enforcement officers have been faced with a substantial increase in death threats and harassment from civilians.
According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “ICE law enforcement is now facing an 8,000% increase in death threats against them,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “From bounties placed on their heads for their murders, threats to their families, stalking, and doxxing online, our officers are experiencing an unprecedented level of violence and threats against them and their families.
Assaults and violence against ICE officers have surged by more than 1,150% compared to last year. 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 Blackburn concluded.
