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Committee advances bill to enhance penalties for crimes tied to "transnational repression"
Summary
A bill to enhance penalties when crimes are committed as part of campaigns of transnational repression was reported favorably after supporters, including national-security and victims' advocates, said it would help local law enforcement respond to foreign-directed harassment; sponsors said it augments, but does not create, criminal prohibitions.
Representative Horton told the Senate Judiciary C committee that HB 6 35 — branded in testimony as the "protection of constitutional liberties" or "transnational repression" bill — would allow penalty enhancements where criminal acts are committed as part of foreign-directed campaigns to intimidate or coerce citizens. The sponsor said the bill does not create new crimes but permits extended sentences and higher fines when offenses are part of transnational repression.
Kelly Curry of State Armor testified in support, framing the bill as part of a national bipartisan effort to give state and local partners tools when federal agencies cannot be everywhere. Curry described incidents of harassment and stalking of U.S. citizens tied to foreign actors and said state and local law enforcement are often first responders. Caroline Hurd of the Louisiana Family Forum and other groups filed support cards.
Committee members voiced support and the bill was reported favorably. Supporters and sponsors said the measure is narrowly tailored to enhance penalties where conduct is directed by foreign adversaries and that it aims to protect freedom of expression, association and religious practice.
