S-855 : Still Just a Bill

Closing the Law Enforcement Consent Loophole Act of 2019

This bill makes it unlawful for a federal law enforcement officer to engage in a sexual act while acting under color of law or with an individual who is under arrest, in detention, or in custody.

Consent is not a defense to prosecution for unlawful conduct. A violator is subject to criminal penalties—a fine, a prison term of up to 15 years, or both.

Additionally, the bill authorizes the Department of Justice to make grants to states that have in effect similar laws. Grants must be used for the same purposes as formula grants under the STOP Violence Against Women Program and the Sexual Assault Services Program.

Action Timeline

Action DateTypeTextSource
2019-03-25IntroReferralRead twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.Senate
2019-03-25IntroReferralIntroduced in SenateLibrary of Congress

Policy Area :

Crime and Law Enforcement
See Subjects
  • Assault and harassment offenses
  • Congressional oversight
  • Criminal investigation, prosecution, interrogation
  • Criminal justice information and records
  • Detention of persons
  • Government studies and investigations
  • Law enforcement administration and funding
  • Law enforcement officers
  • Sex offenses
  • State and local government operations

Related Bills

See Related Bills