Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HB1365

Introduced
3/3/23  

Caption

Lawless Cities Accountability Act of 2023

Impact

If enacted, HB1365 would significantly impact federal funding for various state and local programs, which can include social services and public infrastructure. The act mandates that the Attorney General will regularly review and publish determinations on which jurisdictions are deemed lawless. Federal funds will remain inaccessible to these jurisdictions for a period of 180 days following a determination or until they receive an official review indicating they are no longer 'lawless.' This change aims to ensure taxpayer funds are only used in communities that actively work to uphold law and order.

Summary

House Bill 1365, known as the 'Lawless Cities Accountability Act of 2023,' seeks to restrict federal funds from being allocated to jurisdictions that the Attorney General identifies as 'lawless.' The bill defines a 'lawless jurisdiction' as one that fails to maintain public order, including instances where local law enforcement agencies do not intervene in violent situations or where jurisdictions refuse assistance from federal law enforcement. The goal of this legislation is to hold local governments accountable for their actions during times of crisis, particularly in relation to law enforcement practices.

Challenges

There are considerable implications for local governance and policing strategies if HB1365 is implemented. Local officials may feel pressured to adjust their policing policies under the threat of losing federal funding, potentially leading to conflicts between community-led policing initiatives and federal mandates. Furthermore, the definition of what constitutes a 'lawless jurisdiction' could be contentious, raising fears that it may be misused politically against specific local governments that adopt progressive reforms in law enforcement.

Contention

The bill reflects growing concerns over rising crime rates in certain communities, emphasizing that negligence in law enforcement can lead to violence and substantial property damage. Proponents argue that withholding federal funds is a necessary measure to compel local governments to restore public safety and adequately support their police departments. However, critics may contend that the bill could punish communities that are already facing systemic issues with funding and support. They may argue that the bill unfairly penalizes jurisdictions confronting the very crises it aims to address.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US HB3920

Lawless Cities Accountability Act of 2025

US HB2581

ALVIN Act Accountability for Lawless Violence In our Neighborhoods Act

US HB1913

BLOC Act Act of 2025 Blocking Lawless Open Border Cities and States

US HB1984

BLOC Act Blocking Lawless Open Border Cities and States Act of 2025

US HR1457

Strongly condemning Vice President Kamala Harris for championing antilaw enforcement policies and, as a result, encouraging lawlessness across the country.

US HB4864

End Birthright Citizenship Fraud Act of 2023

US SB2000

Mitigating Extreme Lawlessness and Threats Act

US HB4807

Deep State Accountability Act of 2023

US HB4460

NO VOTE for Non-Citizens Act of 2023 Non-citizens: Outlawed from Voting in Our Trusted Elections Act of 2023

US HB1518

Unauthorized Spending Accountability Act of 2023

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