A new bill moving through Congress is sparking outrage and raising serious constitutional questions.
The proposal, officially called the Department of State Policy Provisions Act (H.R. 5300), was introduced by Rep. Brian Mast (R-FL). If passed, it would give the Secretary of State, currently Marco Rubio, the power to deny or revoke U.S. passports for citizens accused of providing “material support” to organizations labeled as foreign terrorist groups.
On paper, that may sound like a straightforward security measure. But the bill’s broad and vague language could sweep up everyday Americans engaged in political activism, advocacy, or even speech that the government doesn’t like.
Civil liberties groups say the concern is especially heightened when it comes to Israel. Many fear the bill could be used to target U.S. citizens who speak out against Israeli government policies, given how often Palestinian groups are designated as terrorist organizations.
The legislation puts First Amendment rights on the line. Experts warn that it gives way too much unchecked power to a single government official.
For today, the proposal remains just that; a proposal. But the possibility of losing your passport over political speech means the first amendment is done.
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