Federal Halo Act

The proposed "Federal Halo Act" seeks to create a new federal offense under Title 18 of the U.S. Code, specifically targeting actions that obstruct federal law enforcement officers. This legislation defines "harass" as knowingly engaging in conduct that intentionally causes substantial emotional distress to an officer without legitimate purpose. The bill makes it unlawful for an individual to knowingly violate a verbal warning from a federal law enforcement officer by approaching or remaining within 15 feet of them. This prohibition applies if the individual's intent is to impede or interfere with the officer's duties, threaten physical harm , or harass the officer while they are performing a legal duty. Violations of this provision carry significant penalties, including fines, imprisonment for up to five years , or both.