Arizona Legislature Approves Groundbreaking Bill to Shield Residents from Foreign Intimidation

By Daniel Stefanski |

An Arizona lawmaker is taking steps to protect residents from intimidation by foreign governments. Recently, the Arizona House of Representatives approved HB 2374, a bill designed to increase penalties for crimes committed by foreign agents. The legislation prohibits unauthorized foreign law enforcement activities and mandates that the Arizona Department of Public Safety create a training program for law enforcement to recognize and respond to acts of transnational repression. Sponsored by State Representative Quang Nguyen, the bill reflects urgent concerns about foreign interference.

In his statement, Representative Nguyen shared his personal experience, saying, “I fled communist Vietnam as a child, so I know firsthand the devastating impact of government repression. No one in Arizona – no one in America – should have to live in fear of harassment, intimidation, or assault by foreign agents. This bill sends a clear message: we will not tolerate foreign governments trampling on our freedoms.” He emphasized that the House Republicans are dedicated to protecting individual rights and ensuring laws are robust against threats on American soil.

The Arizona House Republicans noted that the bill addresses significant issues, particularly the activities of foreign governments like the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). Evidence has surfaced of these entities using coercion to silence critics within the United States. For instance, Chinese secret police have operated illegally in New York City, monitoring and harassing expatriates. Arizona is also vulnerable to such tactics, and HB 2374 aims to empower law enforcement to identify and act against these offenses.

If enacted, the proposal would enhance public safety by elevating the classification of felonies for crimes like stalking and harassment when committed by foreign agents aiming to intimidate individuals exercising their First Amendment rights. It further establishes unauthorized foreign law enforcement operations in Arizona as a Class 2 felony without state or federal approval.

HB 2374 successfully passed the Arizona House with a vote of 35-25 and is now set to be reviewed by the Arizona Senate.