New bill would create federal crime for trespassing on military property

What does this do?

This bill would create a new federal crime for entering Department of Defense property, such as military bases or testing sites, when it is clearly marked as closed or restricted. Penalties would increase for repeat offenders, ranging from a fine and up to 180 days in jail for a first offense to up to 10 years in prison for a third or later offense.

Who does it affect?

The bill would primarily affect people who trespass onto military property, including protesters, curious trespassers, and repeat offenders entering restricted areas without authorization. It also gives federal prosecutors a specific charging tool for these cases.

Why does it matter?

The law would let prosecutors pursue harsher, escalating penalties against repeat trespassers than typically available under general trespassing laws, potentially increasing legal risk for those entering restricted military sites.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• First offense: fine plus up to 180 days jail
• Second offense: up to 3 years prison
• Third offense: up to 10 years prison