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Sponsor presents RS32427 as due-process measure limiting domestic-terrorism labeling
Summary
Representative Doug Pickett introduced RS32427C1, a bill the sponsor described as a due-process clarification to prevent inappropriate ‘domestic terrorism’ labeling; committee voted to introduce the measure amid questions about scope and the felony threshold in the definition.
Representative Doug Pickett, sponsor of RS32427C1, told the Ways and Means Committee the bill is “a due process bill” intended to protect citizens’ rights to assemble and petition government without being broadly labeled a domestic terrorist. Pickett said the bill removes a prior tie to foreign terrorist organizations and narrows domestic-terrorism definitions to conduct within state borders that constitutes a felony involving violent acts or threats intended to harm human life and to intimidate, coerce, influence or disrupt.
Pickett said the bill’s page 2 makes clear that a person qualifies only “if you are found guilty of domestic terrorism as defined in this section.” He explained the intent is to exclude minor or noncriminal acts from the terrorism label. Several members pressed the sponsor on the phrase requiring a felony threshold for intimidation, coercion and disruption. Representative Birch asked why those acts must rise to a felony to be covered; Pickett said the intent is to exclude minor, noncriminal activities and to reserve the terrorism label for extreme conduct.
Members voiced support for printing the bill but asked for clearer definitions and examples at a later hearing. Representative Monks moved to introduce RS32427C1 and the committee approved the motion by voice vote.
The bill was introduced for future hearings where statutory definitions and real-world examples will be examined.
