The "Military in Law Enforcement Accountability Act" aims to significantly limit and increase oversight of the Department of Defense's involvement in civilian law enforcement activities. It mandates the Secretary of Defense to provide detailed notification and written justification to Congress before offering military support, outlining the budget, timelines, and objectives for such assistance. A critical provision dictates that military support to civilian law enforcement cannot exceed 30 days unless Congress enacts a joint resolution of approval for a longer period. This resolution process includes specific procedures for introduction, committee consideration, and requires a three-fifths affirmative vote in the Senate, ensuring robust legislative review. The bill also establishes a clear prohibition on simultaneous service , preventing individuals from holding positions within both the Department of Defense and civilian law enforcement agencies concurrently. An exception allows members of reserve components to serve in civilian law enforcement in their civilian capacity, provided they formally recuse themselves if called to active duty. Additionally, the legislation expands the scope of existing requirements for Armed Forces and federal law enforcement personnel when assisting civil authorities. It further creates a private right of action , enabling aggrieved parties to bring civil lawsuits in federal court for violations of the Act, seeking injunctive relief or damages.
Referred to the Committee on Armed Services, and in addition to the Committee on Rules, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
Referred to the Committee on Armed Services, and in addition to the Committee on Rules, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
Military in Law Enforcement Accountability Act
USA119th CongressHR-6533| House
| Updated: 12/9/2025
The "Military in Law Enforcement Accountability Act" aims to significantly limit and increase oversight of the Department of Defense's involvement in civilian law enforcement activities. It mandates the Secretary of Defense to provide detailed notification and written justification to Congress before offering military support, outlining the budget, timelines, and objectives for such assistance. A critical provision dictates that military support to civilian law enforcement cannot exceed 30 days unless Congress enacts a joint resolution of approval for a longer period. This resolution process includes specific procedures for introduction, committee consideration, and requires a three-fifths affirmative vote in the Senate, ensuring robust legislative review. The bill also establishes a clear prohibition on simultaneous service , preventing individuals from holding positions within both the Department of Defense and civilian law enforcement agencies concurrently. An exception allows members of reserve components to serve in civilian law enforcement in their civilian capacity, provided they formally recuse themselves if called to active duty. Additionally, the legislation expands the scope of existing requirements for Armed Forces and federal law enforcement personnel when assisting civil authorities. It further creates a private right of action , enabling aggrieved parties to bring civil lawsuits in federal court for violations of the Act, seeking injunctive relief or damages.
Referred to the Committee on Armed Services, and in addition to the Committee on Rules, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
Referred to the Committee on Armed Services, and in addition to the Committee on Rules, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.