In an attempt to crack down on gang violence, yesterday the Senate Judiciary Committee agreed to expand federal law enforcement’s role by making it a federal crime to participate in a “criminal street gang.” This legislation (S 1735) authorizes $650 million for gang prevention and suppression programs and criminalizes the recruitment of minors. Although the House has not considered a similar measure, Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-California), who is a co-sponsor of the bill, feels a strong federal response is necessary given the recent increase in gang violence.

The American Civil Liberties Union criticized the bill’s expansion of the federal death penalty, increase in prosecution of juveniles as adults, and failure to address the issues that motivate people to join gangs. The committee rejected two similar measures that would have focused on preventive action rather than prosecution. Support in the full Senate for the bill is not yet definite.