§2332h Radiological dispersal devices

Summary

It is illegal to knowingly make, get, move, own, import, export, use, or threaten to use any weapon or device that is meant to release radiation at levels dangerous to human life, or any object designed to harm people by releasing radiation. Actions done by or under the authority of the United States government, or under a contract with the U.S. government, are not covered by this rule. U.S. courts can charge someone for this crime when it affects interstate or foreign commerce, happens outside the United States by a U.S. national, is done against a U.S. national abroad, involves U.S. property anywhere, or involves helping or conspiring with someone who meets those rules. Penalties include fines up to $2,000,000 and prison for at least 25 years or life; using or threatening to use such an item carries at least 30 years or life plus the same fine; if someone dies because of the crime, the punishment is life in prison and a fine up to $2,000,000.