S.1975 - Dark Web Interdiction Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
The Dark Web Interdiction Act of 2025 (S.1975) aims to combat the distribution of illegal drugs, particularly opioids, through the dark web. It seeks to enhance law enforcement capabilities and increase penalties for offenses involving controlled substances on the dark web. The bill establishes a Joint Criminal Opioid and Darknet Enforcement Task Force to detect, disrupt, and dismantle illicit marketplaces.
Expected Effects
The Act will likely lead to increased surveillance and prosecution of individuals involved in illegal activities on the dark web, particularly drug trafficking. It may also result in the development of new technologies and strategies for law enforcement to combat cybercrime. The creation of the task force will centralize and coordinate efforts across multiple federal agencies.
Potential Benefits
- Reduced availability of illegal drugs, especially opioids, on the dark web.
- Enhanced public safety through the disruption of criminal activities.
- Improved coordination among federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.
- Development of advanced forensic and cyberforensic capabilities.
- Increased international cooperation in combating cybercrime.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased surveillance and privacy concerns for individuals.
- Risk of overreach by law enforcement in monitoring online activities.
- Possible chilling effect on legitimate uses of the dark web for privacy and security.
- The cost associated with establishing and maintaining the Joint Criminal Opioid and Darknet Enforcement Task Force.
- Potential for the task force to be used for purposes beyond its intended scope.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The Act's focus on combating illegal drug distribution aligns with the government's responsibility to ensure domestic tranquility and promote the general welfare, as stated in the Preamble of the US Constitution. The Fourth Amendment, which protects against unreasonable searches and seizures, could be implicated if surveillance activities are not properly regulated. The Tenth Amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states, so the Act's impact on state law enforcement must be carefully considered.
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).