Biggs Introduces Bill to Protect National Guard from Harassment and Assault During Domestic Deployments

Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Sheri Biggs (R-SC-03) introduced the National Guard Protective Zone Act to establish federal protections for National Guard members serving on domestic missions. The bill creates a federally defined protective zone around Guardsmen in uniform and establishes penalties for anyone who harasses, intimidates, or interferes with them while they are performing official duties. 

“National Guard members are increasingly called upon to protect our communities and respond to emergencies at home,” said Congresswoman Biggs. “They should never face harassment or assault while serving the American people. This bill makes it clear: if you target our Guardsmen, there will be serious consequences.”

The legislation, introduced alongside Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR) and cosponsored by Representatives Scott DesJarlais (R-TN-04), Barry Moore (R-AL-02), Clay Higgins (R-LA-03), and Rick Allen (R-GA-12) also elevates acts of physical aggression against Guardsmen to a federal felony punishable by up to five years in prison. The bill is supported by the National Guard Association of the United States. Congresswoman Biggs discussed the bill during an appearance on Newsmax’s The Briefing with Ed Henry, which can be viewed here.