AI-assisted analysis based on the official CRS summary. Source version: Aug 26, 2026. Analysis updated: Sep 17, 2026.
01 — The Text
What.
- Establishes federal requirement for courts to issue lifetime no-contact orders against defendants convicted of felony crimes of violence or sexual crimes
- No-contact orders are mandatory upon motion by victim or federal government at sentencing
- Orders remain in effect for defendant's lifetime unless terminated or suspended through specified procedures
- Prohibits courts from assessing or collecting fees from victims for no-contact order issuance
02 — The Stakes
So what?
- Creates a statutory framework establishing when and how federal courts must issue no-contact orders in certain criminal cases
- Removes financial barriers for victims seeking no-contact orders in federal cases
- Orders apply to felony offenses classified as crimes of violence or involving sexual acts/conduct; effects on other offense categories are not addressed in the summary
03 — The Path
Now what?
- House passed as amended on August 31, 2026 by voice vote under suspension of rules
- Referred to Senate Committee on the Judiciary on September 14, 2026
- No subsequent Senate action is documented
Legislative History
Actions.
- Sep 14, 2026 — Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.
- Aug 31, 2026 — Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
- Aug 31, 2026 — On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote. (text: CR H5270-5271)
- Aug 31, 2026 — Passed/agreed to in House: On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.
- Aug 31, 2026 — DEBATE - The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 8481.
- Aug 31, 2026 — Considered under suspension of the rules. (consideration: CR H5270-5272)
- Aug 31, 2026 — Ms. Lee (FL) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended.
- Jul 6, 2026 — Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 636.