Uniform Standards for Federal Law Enforcement Act of 2026

This legislation significantly limits the circumstances under which Federal law enforcement officers may use deadly force. It stipulates that such force is permissible only when an officer reasonably believes it is necessary to prevent imminent danger of death or serious bodily injury to themselves or another person. This core provision aims to establish a clear and consistent standard for the application of lethal force across federal agencies. The bill further clarifies that deadly force is not considered necessary solely to prevent a fleeing suspect's escape, disable a moving vehicle, or against individuals whose actions threaten only themselves or property. It specifically restricts discharging a firearm at a moving vehicle unless a person inside poses a deadly threat by means other than the vehicle, or the vehicle itself is used to threaten death or serious injury and no other reasonable defense exists. Additionally, officers must give a verbal warning before using deadly force, if practicable and safe, and are prohibited from firing warning shots , except in federal prisons. The Attorney General is also tasked with developing and providing training to officers on alternative methods and tactics to avoid the use of deadly force in prohibited situations.