DHS Accelerates Rule Expanding Fines and Arrests for Protests Near Federal Buildings, Citing Anti-ICE Demonstrations

DHS Secretary Kristi Noem moved the effective date of 6 C.F.R. Part 139 to November 5, 2025 — originally set for January 2026 — citing security threats from anti-ICE protests. The rule extends DHS enforcement authority beyond federal property to surrounding areas, allows fines for obstructing access or impeding operations, and specifically restricts photography and videography near federal facilities. Civil liberties groups warned the rule could suppress constitutionally protected protest.