Bills of Congress by U.S. Congress

H.R.277 - Matthew Lawrence Perna Act of 2025 (119th Congress)

Summary

H.R.277, the Matthew Lawrence Perna Act of 2025, aims to provide protections for nonviolent political protesters. It amends Title 18 and Title 28 of the United States Code to prevent detention of nonviolent protesters, ensure speedy trials, and provide remedies for malicious overprosecution. The bill also limits the use of national security authority against US citizens and mandates disclosure of investigations of citizens.

Expected Effects

The bill, if enacted, would likely lead to fewer pretrial detentions for individuals involved in political protests. It could also result in increased litigation against the government for alleged malicious overprosecution. Furthermore, it may restrict the government's ability to use national security measures against its own citizens.

Potential Benefits

  • Prevents pre-trial detention for non-violent political protesters.
  • Provides a civil action for those wrongly detained.
  • Ensures speedy trials for those involved in covered political offenses.
  • Limits the use of national security authority against U.S. citizens.
  • Mandates disclosure of investigations against U.S. citizens.

Potential Disadvantages

  • May hinder law enforcement's ability to maintain order during protests.
  • Could lead to frivolous lawsuits against the government.
  • The definition of 'nonviolent political protest' may be subject to interpretation and abuse.
  • Could potentially shield individuals who engage in unlawful activities under the guise of political protest.
  • May complicate national security investigations.

Constitutional Alignment

The bill aligns with the First Amendment's guarantees of freedom of speech and assembly by protecting nonviolent political protesters. It also touches upon the Fourth Amendment's protection against unreasonable searches and seizures by limiting national security authority. However, the potential impact on law enforcement's ability to maintain order could raise concerns related to the government's responsibility to ensure domestic tranquility, as stated in the Constitution's preamble.

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).