This bill restricts how the Department of Defense can support civilian law enforcement activities and tightens oversight of military personnel involvement in domestic law enforcement. Under the legislation, the military can only assist civilian police in six specific emergencies—humanitarian crises, natural disasters, public health emergencies, critical infrastructure attacks, military attacks, or domestic terrorist incidents—and only if the President first submits written justification to Congress explaining how the situation overwhelms civilian law enforcement capabilities. Any military support is limited to 14 days unless Congress passes a joint resolution approving an extension. The bill also prohibits active-duty military members from simultaneously serving in civilian law enforcement positions, though reserve members can maintain civilian law enforcement roles if they recuse themselves when called to active duty. Additionally, the legislation creates a private right of action, allowing individuals, states, or local governments to sue the federal government in federal court if these rules are violated. The bill was introduced in June 2025 by Senators Duckworth, Hirono, and Durbin.
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