Quang Nguyen, AZ Rep. | Facebook
Quang Nguyen, AZ Rep. | Facebook
The Arizona House of Representatives has passed a bill aimed at protecting residents from foreign government intimidation. The legislation, known as HB2374, was sponsored by State Representative Quang Nguyen and seeks to enhance penalties for crimes committed by foreign agents. It also prohibits unauthorized foreign law enforcement activities within the state and instructs the Arizona Department of Public Safety to create a training program for law enforcement to identify and respond to transnational repression.
Representative Nguyen, who chairs the House Judiciary Committee, emphasized the threat posed by foreign adversaries operating in the United States. He said, "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."
The bill addresses concerns about foreign governments using intimidation tactics against dissidents and activists in the U.S., with particular attention on actions by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). A notable case involved Chinese secret police allegedly setting up illegal operations in New York City to monitor expatriates. HB2374 aims to equip Arizona law enforcement with tools to recognize such crimes and protect victims.
Under this legislation, felony classifications are increased for crimes like stalking and harassment when committed by foreign agents against individuals exercising their First Amendment rights. Additionally, it becomes a Class 2 felony for unauthorized foreign law enforcement operations without state or federal approval.
House Republicans have prioritized individual rights and public safety as part of their Majority Plan, with HB2374 being integral to this mission. The bill will now proceed to the Senate for further consideration.
Quang Nguyen represents Legislative District I in Yavapai County and is active on social media under @QuangNguyenAZ.
Information from this article can be found here.
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