Robert Smith: “former Secretary of State, John Foster Dulles once stated that "Of all the tasks of government, the most basic is to…”

“former Secretary of State, John Foster Dulles once stated that "Of all the tasks of government, the most basic is to protect its citizens against violence." While this has been one of our biggest challenges, Congress has the ability to also strengthen those laws that deter violence and provide protection to those whose careers are dedicated to protecting our families and also our communities. With that intent, I rise today with my colleague, Senator Hatch, to introduce the Federal Judiciary Protection Act, a bill to provide greater protection to Federal law enforcement officials and their families. Under current law, a person who assaults, attempts to assault, or who threatens to kidnap or murder a member of the immediate family of a U.S. official, a U.S. judge, or a Federal law enforcement official, is subject to a punishment of a fine or imprisonment of up to 5 years, or both. This legislation seeks to expand these penalties in instances of assault with a weapon and a prior criminal history. In such cases, an individual could face up to 20 years in prison. This legislation would also strengthen the penalties for individuals who communicate threats through the mail.”