H.R.2724 - Protecting Our Supreme Court Justices Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2724, the "Protecting Our Supreme Court Justices Act of 2025," aims to amend Section 1507 of Title 18, United States Code. The bill increases the penalty for obstruction of justice via picketing or parading near court buildings or the residences of judges, jurors, witnesses, or other court officers. The proposed change would increase the maximum prison sentence from one year to five years.
Expected Effects
The bill's primary effect would be to increase the potential punishment for individuals who engage in picketing or parading activities intended to obstruct justice near court-related locations. This could lead to fewer such demonstrations due to the increased risk of severe penalties. It may also deter actions perceived as attempts to intimidate or influence judicial proceedings.
Potential Benefits
- Increased Protection for Judicial Independence: Deters actions that could be perceived as attempts to intimidate or influence judicial officers.
- Enhanced Public Safety: Reduces the likelihood of disruptions or escalations of protests near sensitive locations.
- Reinforced Rule of Law: Upholds the integrity of the justice system by discouraging activities that could obstruct its proper functioning.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential Infringement on Free Speech: Could be argued as a restriction on the First Amendment right to assemble and protest.
- Risk of Overly Broad Application: Concerns that the law could be applied too broadly, chilling legitimate forms of protest.
- Disproportionate Penalties: The increased penalties may be seen as excessive for certain types of non-violent protest.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutionality is debatable. While it aims to protect the justice system, it could potentially infringe upon the First Amendment right to freedom of speech and assembly. The Supreme Court has established that restrictions on speech must be narrowly tailored and serve a significant government interest. Whether this bill meets that standard would likely be subject to judicial review. The government interest is to ensure the safety and security of judges, jurors, witnesses, or other court officers.
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).