1. SUMMARY:
This bill, titled the "Deterring External Threats and Ensuring Robust Responses to Egregious and Nefarious Criminal Endeavors Act" or the "DETERRENCE Act," aims to enhance criminal penalties for certain offenses committed at the direction or coordination of a foreign government or its agents. Its primary purpose is to deter foreign interference in domestic affairs and protect against external threats. The key provisions propose sentencing enhancements of up to 10 years for offenses like kidnapping, murder-for-hire, assaulting federal officials, and threatening the President or presidential staff when coordinated with foreign entities. The bill targets crimes that could undermine national security, government operations, and the safety of public officials, with implications for deterring foreign influence and safeguarding domestic sovereignty.