Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility Briggs bill to protect public officials clears committee

Briggs bill to protect public officials clears committee

HARRISBURG, Oct. 15 – Legislation sponsored by state Rep. Tim Briggs, D-Montgomery, that would protect public officials and their families from targeted harassment and violence has advanced out of the House Judiciary Committee.

House Bill 1822 would prohibit the online publication of personal identifying information—such as home addresses, personal phone numbers, and license plate numbers—of public servants when done with the intent to intimidate, harass, or incite violence.

“This is a critical step toward protecting the people who serve our communities,” said Briggs, who chairs the House Judiciary Committee. “The rising tide of threats and violence against public officials can no longer be ignored. We must act now to ensure their safety—and that of their families.”

Briggs introduced the legislation following the tragic murders of Minnesota Speaker Emeritus Melissa Hortman and her husband, as well as the shooting of Minnesota State Sen. John Hoffman and his wife—incidents that have underscored the growing risks facing public officials across the country.

H.B. 1822 responds to alarming national trends. A recent report from the Global Project Against Hate and Extremism revealed a 327% increase in violent threats against judges on social media over the past year. Between March and mid-April 2025 alone, the U.S. Marshals Service reported 162 direct threats to federal judges. As of May, nearly one-third of the federal judiciary had been targeted.

“This is no longer just about politics or public discourse. This is about life and death,” Briggs said. “We are seeing firsthand the consequences of allowing public servants to become targets. Enough is enough.”

The bill is designed to protect a broad range of public servants—including judges, lawmakers, and staff—while maintaining transparency for the public. It draws a clear line between lawful information-sharing and malicious efforts to endanger individuals.

“Public service should not come with a target on your back,” Briggs said. “This bill sends a message that threats and harassment will not be tolerated.”

H.B. 1822 now moves to the full House for consideration.

Briggs represents the 149th Legislative District, which is comprised of Bridgeport, West Conshohocken, Upper Merion and parts of Lower Merion in Montgomery County.

###rjb/2025/bfg
 

CONTACT: Ryan Bevitz
House Democratic Communications Office
Phone: 717-787-7895
Email:
rbevitz@pahouse.net