Congressman Dan Bishop (NC-09) introduced the No Reward for Inciting Organized Turmoil Act of 2020 or the No RIOT Act, with Representatives Ted Budd (NC-13), Matt Gaetz (FL-01), Ralph Norman (SC-05), Mo Brooks (AL-05), Bob Gibbs (OH-07), and Paul Gosar (AZ-04). This legislation would create a new federal penalty for assaulting a local, state or federal officer during a riot.
"I join most Americans in being appalled by increasing attacks on our law enforcement nationwide. There is no tolerance or justification for assaulting officers who risk their lives to protect our communities and assaults of this kind should be met with swift, harsh punishment" said Rep. Bishop. "We can no longer stand for disorder."
"I believe that anyone who engages in mob violence should be punished to the fullest extent of the law. Chaos and anarchy have no place on America's streets. I'm proud to support a bill that boosts the punishment for rioting and looting. I want to thank Rep. Bishop for putting this bill forward." said Rep. Ted Budd (NC-13).
"I will always defend our rights to assemble, peacefully protect, and work to bring about meaningful change. But let me be clear: rioting, lawlessness, and attacks on our law enforcement officers have no place in our society. I'm fed up with it, and I know my constituents are as well. That's why I'm proud to support the No RIOT Act to help ensure those who incite violence in our nation are held accountable. I thank Rep. Bishop for his leadership on this important issue." said Rep. Ralph Norman (SC-05).
"The recent violent riots, vandalism, murders, autonomous zones, and related crime sprees in large American cities governed by weak Socialist Democrats highlight the importance of law and order. The No Riot Act is another weapon the Department of Justice needs to punish and stop violent rioters. Unfortunately, far too many Socialist Democrat mayors rely on criminal elements to get elected. When anti-law enforcement policies result, it falls to the federal government to protect the American people." said Rep. Mo Brooks (AL-05).
The No RIOT Act was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives on July 09, 2020. The legislation amends Title 18 of the U.S. Code specifically to punish assaults or killings on local, state or federal law enforcement officers during riots connected to interstate activity. The penalties for these crimes would match the current penalties for attacks on a federal officer, including the death penalty if an officer is killed.
One effect of the bill would be to hold organizers of violent riots through online or social media platforms accountable for the injuries and deaths they cause to LEOs. Finally, the bill adds the crimes outlined in the legislation to predicate offenses under existing RICO statutes, ensuring that funders of such violence may be brought to justice.
The full bill text can be found here.