Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that amends the definition of "crime of violence".

Highlights:

• Defines ‘crime of violence’ as an offense that is as follows (Sec. 2):

• Murder, voluntary manslaughter, assault, sexual abuse or aggravated sexual abuse, abusive sexual contact, child abuse, kidnapping, robbery, carjacking, firearms use, burglary, arson, extortion, communication of threats, coercion, fleeing, interference with flight crew members and attendants, domestic violence, hostage taking, stalking, human trafficking, piracy, or a terrorism offense;

• Unlawful possession or use of a weapon of mass destruction;

• Involves the use or unlawful possession of explosives or destructive devices;

• Has an element the use, attempted use, or threatened use of physical force against the person or property of another;

• Attempts to commit, conspiracy to commit, solicitation to commit, or aiding and abetting any of the offenses previously mentioned.  

• Defines ‘communication of threats’ as the transmission of any communications containing any threat of the use of violence to demand or request for ransom or reward for the release of any kidnapped person or threaten to kidnap or injure the person of another (Sec. 2).

• Defines ‘fleeing’ as failing or refusing to comply with a law enforcement officer’s signal to bring a motor vehicle to a stop or fleeing or attempting to elude a law enforcement officer (Sec. 2).

• Defines ‘force’ as the level of force capable of causing physical pain or injury or needed to overcome resistance (Sec. 2).

Full Bill Text

Full Bill Text