HR 5721: Federal penalties for protests near judges and court officers

Would create a new federal offense that could cover protesters who demonstrate near federal judges, jurors, or court staff, regardless of their intent. Under current law, it is illegal to demonstrate or use a sound-amplification device “in or near a building or residence used by” a federal judge, juror, witness or court officer—only if one does so with the intention of influencing them or otherwise “interfering with, obstructing, or impeding the administration of justice.” The bill would remove this intent requirement such that the offense could cover protesters who demonstrate in or near any building or residence that they know is occupied by a judge, juror, witness or court officer, regardless of their purpose for doing so. So, for instance, someone could face federal penalties if they knowingly protest outside a restaurant where a judge is eating, even if they are demonstrating about an issue unrelated to a court case.

Status: pending

Introduced 8 Oct 2025.

HB 1831: New penalties for masked protesters

Would make it a crime to demonstrate while wearing a mask in some circumstances. Under the bill, it would be a third-degree misdemeanor to wear a mask or other device to conceal one’s face, voice, or identity while in a public place. The bill provides for certain exemptions, including “traditional holiday costumes,” masks worn for religious purposes, medical masks worn to prevent the spread of disease, as well as costumes and masks worn during a “parade, ritual, initiation, ceremony, celebration or similar type of gathering” for which a permit has been obtained. It is not clear whether the last category of exemptions would apply to masks worn during permitted protests, and no exemption in the bill would cover masks worn during spontaneous or otherwise unpermitted protests. If enacted, a demonstrator wearing a mask to avoid retaliation for their participation in a spontaneous protest could face up to a year in jail. Sponsors of the bill have said that the legislation is directed at pro-Palestine protesters who have worn masks.

Status: pending

Introduced 8 Oct 2025.

Issue(s): Face Covering