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Thin Blue Line Act

2/12/2025, 6:41 PM

Summary of Bill HR 378

Bill 119 HR 378, also known as the "Victims of Child Abuse Act," aims to amend title 18 of the United States Code to include additional aggravating factors for the imposition of the death penalty in cases where the victim is a child. The bill seeks to address the heinous nature of crimes committed against children by allowing for harsher penalties for those convicted of such crimes.

The bill specifically targets individuals who commit crimes such as murder, kidnapping, or sexual abuse against children. By adding these aggravating factors, the bill aims to ensure that those who harm children are held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.

Supporters of the bill argue that crimes against children are particularly egregious and warrant stronger punishment. They believe that by including these aggravating factors, the bill will serve as a deterrent to those who may consider committing such crimes in the future. Opponents of the bill, however, raise concerns about the constitutionality of imposing the death penalty based on the status of the victim. They argue that all individuals should be treated equally under the law, regardless of the nature of the crime or the identity of the victim. Overall, Bill 119 HR 378 is a controversial piece of legislation that seeks to address the issue of crimes against children by providing additional aggravating factors for the imposition of the death penalty. It remains to be seen how this bill will be received and whether it will ultimately be passed into law.

Congressional Summary of HR 378

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 HR 378

Bill HR 378 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since January 14, 2025. Bill HR 378 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the House on January 14, 2025.  Bill HR 378's most recent activity was Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary. as of January 14, 2025

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 378

Total Number of Sponsors
5
Democrat Sponsors
0
Republican Sponsors
5
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
30
Democrat Cosponsors
0
Republican Cosponsors
30
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 378

Primary Policy Focus

Crime and Law Enforcement

Potential Impact Areas

- Crime victims
- Criminal procedure and sentencing
- Emergency medical services and trauma care
- Fires
- First responders and emergency personnel
- Health personnel
- Law enforcement officers
- Violent crime

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 378

To amend title 18, United States Code, to provide additional aggravating factors for the imposition of the death penalty based on the status of the victim.
To amend title 18, United States Code, to provide additional aggravating factors for the imposition of the death penalty based on the status of the victim.

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