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Protecting peaceful protesters and citizens' rights in legal proceedings

This act introduces changes to protect individuals accused of peaceful political protests, making it harder to detain them before trial. It also grants the right to compensation for wrongful detention and speeds up court proceedings. Additionally, it limits the use of national security authorities against citizens and facilitates access to information about surveillance.
Key points
Individuals charged solely with peaceful political protest offenses cannot be detained before trial.
Ability to seek compensation if a citizen was wrongfully detained in federal cases and charges were dropped or no conviction occurred.
Expedited court proceedings for individuals charged with peaceful political protest offenses.
Introduction of claims for "malicious overprosecution," meaning charges grossly disproportionate to the alleged conduct.
Limiting the use of national security authorities against U.S. citizens unless they are intentionally acting as agents of a foreign power.
Making it easier for citizens to access information about whether they have been surveilled or investigated by the government.
Option for individuals on trial in the District of Columbia to choose the venue for proceedings in their primary residence district.
article Official text account_balance Process page
Introduced
Citizen Poll
No votes cast
Additional Information
Print number: 119_HR_277
Sponsor: Rep. Greene, Marjorie Taylor [R-GA-14]
Process start date: 2025-01-09
Lustra uses Artificial Intelligence. Verify details in source documents.
Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Matthew Lawrence Perna Act of 2025

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 119_HR_277.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2025-01-09.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Individuals charged solely with peaceful political protest offenses cannot be detained before trial.
  • Ability to seek compensation if a citizen was wrongfully detained in federal cases and charges were dropped or no conviction occurred.
  • Expedited court proceedings for individuals charged with peaceful political protest offenses.
  • Introduction of claims for "malicious overprosecution," meaning charges grossly disproportionate to the alleged conduct.
  • Limiting the use of national security authorities against U.S. citizens unless they are intentionally acting as agents of a foreign power.
  • Making it easier for citizens to access information about whether they have been surveilled or investigated by the government.
  • Option for individuals on trial in the District of Columbia to choose the venue for proceedings in their primary residence district.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Introduced.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Greene, Marjorie Taylor [R-GA-14].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Introduced in House

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-22.

CATEGORIES

Courts and Law Security