GOV. ASA HUTCHINSON’S PROPOSED FEDERAL LAW ENFORCEMENT REFORM

The current state of federal law enforcement demands immediate reform. Instances of politicization and bias have raised questions about the fairness and impartiality of these institutions. To rebuild confidence and ensure equal treatment under the law, comprehensive reform is imperative. The proposed reforms aim to uphold the principles of justice, preserve the integrity of law enforcement agencies, and protect the rights of Americans.

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The Principles of Governor Asa Hutchinson’s Federal Law Enforcement Reform:

• Accountability for All Enforcement Actions

• Protection of Civil Liberties

• Clarity and Focus of Mission

• Fiscal Responsibility

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Elements of Reform:

1. Eliminate Drug Enforcement Responsibilities From the FBI: Refocus FBI's mission, reducing its role in drug enforcement. DEA will lead in drug enforcement, while FBI supports complex cases involving organized crime and terrorism.

2. Hold the FBI Accountable for the Protection of Privacy and Civil Liberties: Elevate the Office of Privacy and Civil Liberties within the FBI to ensure accountability. The FBI Director will be required to meet with a Congressional Advisory Board, and due process reviews will be conducted when important freedoms or property interests are negatively impacted.

3. Increase Transparency and Accountability in the FBI by Recording Interviews: Reverse the default rule of not recording agent interviews to promote transparency, accountability, and accurate evidence presentation in court.

4. Reassign FBI Administrative Support Offices: Improve efficiency and strengthen DOJ authority by reassigning administrative support offices within the FBI to the Department of Justice. This will enhance congressional relations, public communications, and legal guidance.

5. A Charter for Federal Law Enforcement Agencies: Establish a unified framework through a charter that safeguards civil liberties, enhances accountability, ensures consistency, and rebuilds trust between law enforcement and the American people.

6. Establish a Commission on the Future of Federal Law Enforcement: Create a commission to assess and recommend consolidation, reduction, or elimination of certain federal law enforcement agencies to streamline operations, minimize redundancy, and enhance efficiency.

7. Reform Intelligence Collection Under Section 702 of FISA: Extend Section 702 of FISA with appropriate Congressional review and reform to prevent abuses. Any inquiry into the Section 702 database must be reported to Congress.

8. Reaffirm the Critical Relationship Between President and Attorney General: Emphasize the oversight role of the Attorney General and the non-interference principle of the President in specific investigations, ensuring a balanced approach to enforcement priorities and policy.

 

These reforms will allow federal law enforcement agencies regain trust, enhance accountability, and restore public confidence in their vital role in upholding justice and ensuring the safety and security of the American people.

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Note: This one-pager provides an overview of Gov. Asa Hutchinson's proposed federal law enforcement reform, highlighting the need for reform, key principles, and specific elements of reform.