Thin Blue Line Act

12/15/2023, 4:06 PM

Summary of Bill S 459

The Thin Blue Line Act, also known as Bill 118 s 459, is a piece of legislation introduced in the United States Congress. The purpose of this bill is to enhance the penalties for individuals who commit certain crimes against law enforcement officers.

Specifically, the Thin Blue Line Act aims to make it a federal crime to kill, attempt to kill, or conspire to kill a federal law enforcement officer, a state or local officer, or a first responder. The bill also seeks to impose stricter penalties, including the possibility of the death penalty or life imprisonment, for those convicted of such crimes.

Supporters of the Thin Blue Line Act argue that it is necessary to protect those who put their lives on the line to protect and serve their communities. They believe that by increasing the penalties for crimes against law enforcement officers, it will deter individuals from targeting them. Opponents of the bill, however, raise concerns about the potential for misuse of the death penalty and argue that it may not effectively address the root causes of violence against law enforcement officers. Overall, the Thin Blue Line Act is a controversial piece of legislation that seeks to enhance the protection of law enforcement officers through stricter penalties for crimes committed against them. It is currently being debated in Congress, with supporters and opponents voicing their opinions on its potential impact.

Congressional Summary of S 459

Thin Blue Line Act

This bill expands the list of statutory aggravating factors in death penalty determinations to also include killing or targeting a law enforcement officer, firefighter, or other first responder.

Current Status of Bill S 459

Bill S 459 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since February 15, 2023. Bill S 459 was introduced during Congress 118 and was introduced to the Senate on February 15, 2023.  Bill S 459's most recent activity was Read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary. (Sponsor introductory remarks on measure: CR S428) as of February 15, 2023

Bipartisan Support of Bill S 459

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
0
Republican Sponsors
1
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
24
Democrat Cosponsors
0
Republican Cosponsors
24
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill S 459

Primary Policy Focus

Crime and Law Enforcement

Potential Impact Areas

Crime victimsCriminal procedure and sentencingEmergency medical services and trauma careFiresFirst responders and emergency personnelHealth personnelLaw enforcement officersViolent crime

Alternate Title(s) of Bill S 459

Thin Blue Line ActThin Blue Line ActA bill to amend title 18, United States Code, to provide enhanced penalties for convicted murderers who kill or target America's public safety officers.
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