HB 2772 Crime of domestic terrorism

This bill creates crime of domestic terrorism in the first degree. Punishes by maximum penalty of 10 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, or both. Creates crime of domestic terrorism in the second degree. Punishes by maximum penalty of five years’ imprisonment, $125,000 fine, or both. Directs Oregon Criminal Justice Commission to classify crimes as specified crime categories of sentencing guidelines grid.

This bill contains words that will entrap well-meaning citizens that gather at the capitol to oppose a bill and actions of the legislators. Citizens have a right to “disrupt the daily life” of the “environment” or “government functioning” since they are doing our business.

It is not “terrorism” to disrupt daily life and government functioning without force or violence.

The FBI defines terrorism, domestic or international, as the unlawful use of force or violence against persons or property to intimidate or coerce a Government or civilian population in furtherance of political or social objectives.

Section 802 of the USA PATRIOT Act (Pub. L. No. 107-52) expanded the definition of terrorism to cover “”domestic,”” as opposed to international, terrorism. A person engages in domestic terrorism if they do an act “dangerous to human life” that is a violation of the criminal laws of a state. It isn’t breaking criminal laws of this state in causing a disruption of daily life of government function.