In House Committee·Last action 93 days ago

DHS officers would face one use-of-force rulebook and more public reporting

Officially: DHS Use of Force Oversight Act

DHS law enforcement officers would have to follow one department-wide policy on force and deescalation. The bill also requires training, internal reviews, and public reports on serious force incidents. It would ban chokeholds and carotid restraints in the listed arrest situations.

Where it stands

Sitting in Homeland Security

No vote scheduled. Constituent contact is what moves bills out of committee.

What this bill actually does

DHS would have to use one force and deescalation policy across the whole department. That rule would apply to all DHS law enforcement officers and agents.
Officers could use force only when it is objectively reasonable under all the facts. They should give a verbal warning and identify themselves first when they can.
DHS officers and agents could not use chokeholds or carotid restraints in these listed cases. The ban applies when they are trying to control people who are resisting arrest but not complying.

↓ Why your message matters here

This bill is sitting in committee with no scheduled vote — which means a small number of constituent messages can decide whether it moves forward or quietly dies.

The debate

What people are saying about this bill

✓Arguments in support

Supporters argue that the bill will create a safer environment by reducing unnecessary use of force incidents through clear guidelines and training.
It aims to increase accountability and transparency within DHS agencies by mandating detailed reporting of force incidents.
The bill is seen as a step towards federal police reform, addressing concerns raised by high-profile incidents involving law enforcement.

✕Arguments against

Critics might argue that the bill could impose additional bureaucracy on DHS agencies, potentially slowing down their operations.
There are concerns that the new policy could compromise officer safety by limiting their ability to respond quickly in dangerous situations.
Some may question the effectiveness of the bill without additional funding or resources to support training and implementation.

Where this bill is in the process

Legislative timeline

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Introduced

Introduced in House

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House Committee

Under House committee consideration

Latest: Referred to the Committee on Homeland Security, and in addition to the Committee on the Judiciary, 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. (1/15/2026)

JAN 15

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House Floor Vote

Voted on by House

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Passed House

Approved by House

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Senate Review

Sent to Senate for consideration

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Passed Both Chambers

Approved by both House and Senate

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Signed into Law

Signed by the President

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DHS officers would face one use-of-force rulebook and more public reporting

What people are saying about this bill

Legislative timeline

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