In a 264-155 vote, the House of Representatives has passed H.R. 35, the Agent Raul Gonzalez Officer Safety Act, a bill aimed at imposing criminal and immigration penalties for intentionally fleeing a pursuing federal officer while operating a motor vehicle. Sponsored by Rep. Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ-6), the legislation seeks to deter high-speed chases involving federal law enforcement officers by introducing harsher penalties for offenders.
What Does H.R. 35 Do?
The Agent Raul Gonzalez Officer Safety Act makes it a federal crime to intentionally evade a pursuing federal law enforcement officer while driving. The bill includes:
✅ Criminal penalties for individuals who flee from federal officers in a vehicle
✅ Immigration consequences, including potential deportation for non-citizens who commit the offense
✅ Stronger coordination between federal and local law enforcement in cases involving high-speed pursuits
Supporters argue that this law will enhance officer safety, prevent dangerous high-speed chases, and discourage criminals from attempting to escape arrest.
How the Vote Played Out
The bill received strong bipartisan support but was not without opposition. The final 264-155 vote shows that while a majority of lawmakers backed the measure, over 150 representatives voted against it.
Why Some Supported It:
✔️ Improves law enforcement safety by discouraging dangerous pursuits
✔️ Provides legal consequences for those who recklessly evade arrest
✔️ Ensures immigrants who commit this offense face removal
Why Some Opposed It:
❌ Concerns over excessive federal penalties for minor offenses
❌ Worries about unintended immigration consequences
❌ Potential for increased encounters between federal officers and civilians
What’s Next for H.R. 35?
Now that the bill has passed the House, it moves to the Senate, where it will undergo further debate and a potential vote. If approved by the Senate and signed into law, this act could significantly impact law enforcement policies regarding vehicle pursuits and immigration enforcement.
With ongoing debates about federal policing and criminal justice reform, this bill will be closely watched as it progresses through the legislative process.
Final Thoughts: A Tougher Stance on Fleeing Federal Officers
H.R. 35 represents a firm stance on law enforcement safety, particularly in cases of dangerous vehicle pursuits. While it has gained strong support, its impact on criminal justice policies and immigration laws remains a point of contention.
With the bill now in the Senate’s hands, the question is: Will it gain enough support to become law?
Bills at the Hill 
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