LGBTQ+ Panic Defense Prohibition Act of 2025

# LGBTQ+ Panic Defense Prohibition Act of 2025 Summary **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would prohibit defendants in federal criminal cases from using a "panic defense" based on the victim's actual or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity. A panic defense is a legal strategy where someone claims they acted violently because they were panicked or disturbed upon discovering or believing someone was LGBTQ+. The bill would prevent this reasoning from being presented as a justification or excuse in federal court. **Who It Affects and Key Provisions** The bill would apply to federal crimes and affect defendants accused of violent offenses who might otherwise argue that learning about a victim's sexual orientation or gender identity caused them to react violently.

It would restrict certain legal arguments in murder, assault, and other violent crime cases in the federal system. Currently, some states have already banned panic defenses, while others still allow them. **Current Status** The bill is in committee as of now, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House of Representatives. It was sponsored by Representative Chris Pappas, a Democrat from New Hampshire.