Panel moves to stiffen penalties for impersonating federal agents after testimony about ‘masked’ impostors

The House Public Safety Subcommittee No. 3 adopted a committee substitute to HB 14‑92 and reported the bill to the full committee by voice and roll votes (recorded 4‑to‑1 in the transcript). Sponsor Delegate Shinn said recent incidents of individuals impersonating federal agents — including door‑to‑door encounters — have terrorized some communities and that existing misdemeanor penalties are insufficient.

Why it matters: Testimony from community groups and immigrant‑rights advocates described instances where masked or unidentified individuals have frightened residents; sponsors argued enhanced penalties would protect vulnerable populations and support public safety.

What the bill does: The substitute establishes enhanced penalties for persons who impersonate federal law‑enforcement officers. The sponsor framed the bill as a response to a campaign of intimidation in communities heavily populated by immigrants and said the upgrade in penalties will better protect those communities.

Public response and procedure: Dozens of in‑room and online witnesses — faith groups, legal‑aid organizations and community coalitions — stood in support. No speakers registered formal opposition in the transcript. The subcommittee voted to report the substitute; the clerk recorded the roll as 4 to 1.

Next steps: The bill was reported to the full Public Safety Committee for further consideration.