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FLORIDA - A newly introduced bill in the U.S. Senate would establish a federal buffer zone around immigration officers to prevent interference during enforcement operations.
U.S. Senator Ashley Moody of Florida has introduced legislation known as the Halo Act, a proposal aimed at increasing protections for federal immigration enforcement officers while they are performing official duties.
The bill would make it a federal offense for individuals to knowingly approach within 25 feet of an immigration officer after being verbally instructed to keep their distance.
According to the proposal, the buffer zone would apply during active enforcement actions and investigations conducted by federal immigration authorities.
If enacted, the law would allow officers to issue a warning requiring a person to move back. Failure to comply after that warning could result in criminal penalties, including fines and potential prison time of up to five years.
The Halo Act is modeled after a Florida state law that took effect earlier this year, which created similar protections for state and local law enforcement officers.
Senator Moody has said the federal version is intended to address growing safety concerns for immigration officers who face confrontations while carrying out their responsibilities.
The legislation broadly defines federal immigration officers to include any authorized personnel enforcing or investigating immigration laws on behalf of the federal government.
Supporters of the bill argue that it is designed to prevent obstruction and intimidation, not to limit lawful speech or protest.
The proposal comes amid heightened national debate over immigration enforcement and public interactions with law enforcement.
Critics have raised questions about how the buffer zone could affect constitutionally protected activities, while supporters maintain the bill focuses strictly on safety and operational effectiveness.
The Halo Act has been referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee, where it will be reviewed and debated before any potential vote.