Military in Law Enforcement Accountability Act

Sponsor: Sam T. Liccardo (Democratic-CA)December 9, 2025

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Introduced

In Committee

Passed One Chamber

Passed Both Chambers

Signed into Law

Referred to the Committee on Armed Services, and in addition to the Committee on Rules, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

Rules would limit military support for local police and stop federal officers from also working as local cops.

This bill would make it harder for the military to help civilian police forces for long periods. It would require the President to tell Congress why the help is needed, and Congress would have to approve it if it lasts more than 30 days. The bill would also stop most people from working for both the military and a civilian police department at the same time.

What Would Change

Currently, the Department of Defense can provide support to civilian law enforcement without specific notification and approval processes for longer periods. There is also no general prohibition on individuals serving simultaneously in the Department of Defense and civilian law enforcement. This bill would require Presidential notification and Congressional approval for Department of Defense support to civilian law enforcement exceeding 30 days, and would prohibit most individuals from simultaneously serving in the Department of Defense and civilian law enforcement, with an exception for reservists who would recuse themselves when on active duty.

Key Provisions

Requires the President to notify Congress and provide detailed justification before the Department of Defense (DoD) can provide support (like equipment or training) to civilian law enforcement. Congressional approval via a joint resolution (requiring a three-fifths Senate vote) is mandated for support lasting over 30 days.
Prohibits individuals from simultaneously serving in the Department of Defense (military or civilian capacity) and civilian law enforcement. An exception is made for reservists, who must recuse themselves from civilian law enforcement duties when on active duty.
Expands requirements for military and federal law enforcement personnel when assisting civil authorities, mandating uniforms, identification, and subjection to military law in all such instances, not just civil disturbances.
Establishes a private right of action, allowing individuals, states, or local governments to sue the federal government for violations of this Act and seek damages or injunctive relief.

View on Congress.gov

HR 6533 · 119th Congress · December 9, 2025 · AI Summary by gemini-2.5-flash · 8/10

Military in Law Enforcement Accountability Act

What Would Change

Key Provisions

Lobbying Activity