Bill adds tougher sentences for crimes tied to foreign governments
Passed one chamberS. 1136Latest action
Sponsor: Margaret Wood Hassan · Senator · NH
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: DETERRENCE Act
119th Congress
Topics: Crime & justice
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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Judges could add 5-10 extra years to sentences for existing federal crimes linked to foreign government direction.
40-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
This bill increases possible prison sentences for certain serious federal crimes, like kidnapping, murder-for-hire, stalking, and threats against federal officials, when committed under a foreign government's direction or coordination. Judges could add roughly 5 to 10 extra years, depending on the offense, if prosecutors prove a foreign government link. It doesn't create new crimes, only tougher potential punishments for existing ones.
Who does it affect?
It affects federal prosecutors, judges, and defendants in cases involving foreign government-linked crimes, including potential victims like public officials, dissidents, or their families.
Why does it matter?
The change addresses concerns about foreign governments using criminal proxies to intimidate, harm, or kill people on U.S. soil. It does not affect sentencing for ordinary crimes or state-level offenses.
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Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
Where does it stand?
- IntroducedMar 26, 2025
- Senate committee
- Senate vote
- HouseYou are here · Jun 11, 2025
- The president's desk
Right now: it passed the Senate, and the official record shows nothing new since. If the House changes it, it goes back to the Senate before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Held at the desk.