Federal terrorism definition would expand to cover property damage and obstruction
In committeeH.R. 8843Latest action
Sponsor: John J. McGuire III · Representative · VA
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Official title: FAFO Act
119th Congress
Topics: Crime & justice
Introduced:
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HR 8843 would let federal law treat property-damaging protests as domestic terrorism if they also block police, emergency responders, or medical access.
50-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
HR 8843 expands the federal legal definition of domestic terrorism to include acts that cause significant property damage, not just acts dangerous to human life. To meet the new definition, the act must also block a law enforcement officer or first responder from doing their job, or prevent someone from reaching medical care. Existing federal and state laws already address property damage and obstruction separately; this bill raises the threshold at which those acts could be classified as terrorism.
Who does it affect?
This bill most directly affects people who participate in protests, blockades, or demonstrations that damage property and interfere with police, emergency responders, or people seeking medical help. Civil liberties organizations and law enforcement groups would likely interpret and apply this change differently.
Why does it matter?
Someone charged under this expanded definition could face the heavier penalties and broader federal involvement in prosecution that come with a domestic terrorism label. Courts would ultimately determine how broadly or narrowly to interpret the new definition.
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Where does it stand?
- IntroducedMay 15, 2026
- House committeeYou are here · May 15, 2026
- House vote
- Senate
- The president's desk
Right now: a House committee is reviewing it. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.