Press Releases

Washington, D.C. ­– Congressman Nathaniel Moran (R-TX-01) praised the House passage of Congressman Juan Ciscomani’s (R-AZ-06) Raul Gonzalez Officer Safety Act. This legislation strengthens federal penalties for illegal aliens, human smugglers, cartel members, or other bad actors who engage in high-speed chases to evade the U.S. Border Patrol and law enforcement officers assisting the federal government.

“The previous Administration was complacent in securing our borders and enforcing the rule of law,” said Congressman Moran. “Unfortunately, this has emboldened illegal immigrants to enter our country and has led to a sharp rise in high-speed chases along the border—putting our Border Patrol and law enforcement officers at risk.”

“This common-sense legislation highlights the steps House Republicans are taking to secure our borders, support our law enforcement, and deter threats from foreign invaders,” continued Congressman Moran. “As a representative of the great state of Texas, I want to safeguard our Border Patrol and law enforcement officers who risk their lives daily to stop human trafficking, the flow of fentanyl, and illegal immigration into our communities.”

Background:
The bill is named in honor of Agent Raul Gonzalez, who was tragically killed in a car crash in Mission, Texas, while pursuing a group of illegal aliens evading Border Patrol agents.

The legislation establishes a new federal criminal offense with escalating penalties: up to two years in prison for an offense, five to 20 years if it results in serious bodily injury, and 10 years to life if it leads to death. It also enforces strict immigration consequences, making convicted individuals inadmissible, removable, and ineligible for immigration relief, including asylum.

Additionally, the bill requires the Attorney General to submit an annual report to the House and Senate Judiciary Committees, detailing the number of individuals charged under this law and the penalties imposed.

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