To amend title 18, United States Code, to include rioting in the definition of racketeering activity.

# Summary of HR 4620 **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would expand federal racketeering laws to classify rioting as a form of organized crime activity. Currently, federal racketeering statutes (known as RICO laws) target enterprises engaged in patterns of illegal activity like drug trafficking, money laundering, and extortion. This bill would add rioting to that list, potentially allowing federal prosecutors to bring more serious charges against individuals involved in riots that prosecutors believe are part of organized criminal schemes. **Who It Affects and Key Provisions** The bill would primarily affect individuals involved in riots and the prosecutors who handle these cases.

By classifying rioting as racketeering activity, it would make it possible to prosecute participants under federal RICO statutes, which carry enhanced penalties and allow prosecutors to pursue cases involving coordinated groups rather than just individuals. This could significantly increase potential sentences for riot-related convictions and expand federal prosecution authority in civil unrest cases. **Current Status** HR 4620 was introduced in the 119th Congress by Representative Beth Van Duyne (R-TX) and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives. The bill has not advanced to a floor vote at this time.