Law Enforcement Support and Counter Transnational Repression Act
Summary
H.R. 2116 would require the Department of Homeland Security to conduct a public awareness campaign about transnational repression—when foreign governments intimidate, harass, or threaten people living in the United States, including dissidents and journalists who have fled authoritarian regimes. The bill would also expand access to FBI hotlines where victims of such foreign intimidation can anonymously report threats and seek help. This legislation is designed to help immigrant communities and diaspora groups feel safer reporting foreign government harassment to law enforcement without fear of retaliation.
Additionally, the bill would direct DHS to research and develop technologies and techniques to help state and local law enforcement agencies better identify and counter transnational repression threats in their communities. The bill has passed committee review and is now eligible for a floor vote in the House. If enacted, it would provide practical support to people targeted by foreign governments while equipping local law enforcement with tools to address this growing threat.