Committee strips long‑unused federal offenses in 'End Endless Criminal Statutes' bill

The House Judiciary Committee voted to report HR 98, the End Endless Criminal Statutes Act, after adopting an amendment in the nature of a substitute. Proponents said the measure removes antiquated or absurd federal criminal offenses such as the federal prohibition on writing a check for less than one dollar and other rarely enforced provisions. Opponents said the committee should first inventory offenses and consult jurisdictional committees.

Representative Biggs, sponsor of the bill, told the committee the act eliminates “absurdist” felonies and cited examples including counterfeiting provisions and prohibitions on certain packaging or shapes of products. "You can eliminate some of those crimes," he said, advocating for removing laws that turn innocuous behavior into federal offenses.

Ranking Member Raskin pressed for a methodical approach, saying the work would be better handled alongside the Count the Crimes legislation to avoid unintended consequences and to consult subject‑matter committees. He noted the bill had drawn opposition from the U.S. Capitol Police, the Architect of the Capitol and maritime unions on specific provisions, including a longstanding statute that gives Capitol Police authority to protect turf and grounds on the Capitol campus.

The committee adopted a substitute and voted to report the bill favorably. A recorded vote was held and the clerk reported the tally as 16 ayes and 14 noes.

Why it matters: The bill targets a small set of old or rarely enforced federal criminal provisions. Supporters say repeals are low‑risk, high‑value housekeeping. Opponents warn that repeals should be informed by subject‑matter expertise and not create enforcement gaps.

What’s next: The committee ordered the bill reported favorably to the House; staff was authorized to make technical and conforming changes.