Rep. Dan Crenshaw, R-Texas, has introduced a new House bill that would make non-U.S. citizens who assault police during declared emergencies deportable and permanently banned from the United States. The legislation, which is under consideration by some House Republicans, aims to address the issue of foreign nationals participating in violent anti-law enforcement riots. Under the proposed law, individuals convicted of ‘actual or attempted assault, battery, or use of force’ against any law enforcement officer would be eligible for deportation.
Crenshaw, who is leading the bill, described the measure as a tool to restore order during times of crisis, explaining that those who commit violent acts against law enforcement have effectively waived their constitutional rights. The bill would apply to legal permanent residents, undocumented immigrants, and beneficiaries of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals policy, and would go into effect when presidents, governors, or local leaders declare emergencies or major disasters.
The proposal comes amid continued tensions in Los Angeles, where protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations turned violent this weekend. Rioters were seen burning American flags and cars, while police used pepper spray and rubber bullets on crowds outside federal buildings. President Donald Trump has deployed the National Guard and ordered 700 U.S. Marines to Los Angeles, despite objections from California Governor Gavin Newsom.
Democrats have accused the Trump administration of escalating violence, while Republicans argue federal action is necessary. Crenshaw said his legislation would enable authorities to differentiate between U.S. citizens and legal aliens who might have violated the social contract with the United States by rioting against its immigration laws. He noted that the White House has expressed interest in the bill, though no official comments have been made yet.
Currently, legal U.S. residents and green card holders can have their status revoked for crimes such as murder, drug trafficking, and rape. This new bill expands the scope to include violent acts against law enforcement during emergencies, reflecting broader political tensions over immigration and public safety.