H.R.2649 - Strengthen and Tackle Opportunities to Prevent Violence Act of 2025; STOP Violence Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2649, the STOP Violence Act of 2025, aims to amend the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 by allocating additional grant funding for protection against mass violence. Specifically, it designates $20,000,000 to be granted by the Attorney General to states, local governments, and non-profit organizations that serve victims of crime. These funds are intended to provide compensation, training, and technical assistance to public assembly facilities to prepare against and protect from mass violence.
The bill defines 'mass violence' to include active shooter incidents and targeted violence, providing specific definitions for each. It also defines 'public assembly facility' broadly to include various locations where people gather.
Expected Effects
The bill's passage would result in increased funding for security measures at public assembly facilities. This could lead to improved training for staff and enhanced physical security.
It would also provide resources for victim compensation and support services. The definitions provided in the bill would clarify the scope of mass violence prevention efforts.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced security measures at public assembly facilities, potentially deterring attacks and mitigating harm.
- Increased training and preparedness among staff at these facilities.
- Compensation and support services for victims of mass violence.
- Clearer definitions of 'mass violence,' 'active shooter,' and 'targeted violence' to guide law enforcement and prevention efforts.
- Proactive measures to protect public spaces and reduce the risk of mass violence incidents.
Potential Disadvantages
- The allocated funding of $20,000,000 may be insufficient to address the security needs of all public assembly facilities nationwide.
- The bill does not address the root causes of violence, focusing primarily on reactive measures.
- There may be challenges in equitably distributing the grant funding among states, local governments, and non-profit organizations.
- The broad definition of 'public assembly facility' could lead to confusion and inconsistencies in implementation.
- Potential for increased security measures to create a sense of fear or anxiety among the public.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution, particularly the government's responsibility to "insure domestic Tranquility" and "provide for the common defence," as stated in the Preamble. The Second Amendment, which protects the right to bear arms, is a relevant consideration, but the bill focuses on preventing violence rather than restricting gun ownership.
The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights. The allocation of funds for training and security measures is within the purview of Congress's power to legislate for the general welfare.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).