# Plain Language Summary: Residential Protest Prohibition Act of 2022

This bill would make it a federal crime to picket or protest outside someone's home if you're doing it to harass or disturb them. If someone is caught protesting at a residential dwelling with the intent to harass the person living there, they could face up to one year in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. The law would apply to any protests that affect interstate commerce, which is a broad category that could include most organized protest activities.

The bill requires federal law enforcement to give protesters a warning before making any arrests. An officer would need to approach the protesters and command them to leave immediately and peacefully. Only if they refuse to leave after this warning can they be arrested under this law. The bill defines "dwelling" as any building or part of a building where someone lives, which covers houses, apartments, and similar residences.

The key question with this bill is what counts as "intent to harass or disturb." This phrase is somewhat vague and could be interpreted different ways. Someone protesting outside a politician's home, a corporate executive's house, or any other residence could potentially face federal charges if prosecutors argue the protest was meant to harass or disturb the resident. This raises concerns about whether the law could be used to prevent legitimate protest activities, since many protests are inherently meant to draw attention and create pressure on the people being protested against. The bill doesn't clearly distinguish between peaceful protest and harassment, which could make it difficult to know exactly what behavior would be illegal.

Residential Protest Prohibition Act of 2022

Timmons, William R.

Residential Protest Prohibition Act of 2022 This bill establishes a new criminal offense for picketing or protesting before or about the dwelling of any person with the intent to harass or disturb that person in his or her dwelling. A violation is subject to a fine and a prison term of not more than one year.