Bill > HB635

This bill enacts the "Protection of Constitutional Liberties in Louisiana Act" to combat what it defines as "transnational repression," which is defined as actions by agents of foreign adversaries (countries specified in federal regulations) or foreign terrorist organizations (groups designated as such by the U.S. government) that aim to harass, intimidate, or control people outside their own territories. The act prohibits agents of these foreign entities from committing crimes in Louisiana with the intent to coerce someone, force them to leave the U.S., prevent them from engaging in constitutionally protected conduct like freedom of religion or speech, or retaliate against them for such conduct. It also makes it a crime for anyone to obstruct investigations with the intent to enforce foreign laws that violate Louisiana or U.S. law. Penalties include additional prison time for underlying felonies committed by these agents, and specific prison sentences and fines for those who obstruct investigations. Furthermore, any foreign legal decisions that deny rights guaranteed by the U.S. or Louisiana constitutions are declared void and unenforceable in the state. The bill also authorizes the Louisiana Attorney General's office to develop and implement training programs for law enforcement on recognizing and responding to transnational repression.