§232 Definitions

Summary

Defines some key words used in the chapter. Civil disorder means a public disturbance with violence by three or more people that risks or causes harm to people or property. Commerce covers trade or movement across states and the District of Columbia, including trips between states and places outside them, trips through other states, and anything entirely inside the District of Columbia. Federally protected function means any activity done under U.S. law by a federal department, agency, instrumentality, or federal employee, and it includes mail collection and delivery. Firearm means a gun that fires a projectile by explosive force, or the gun’s frame or receiver. Explosive or incendiary device covers high explosives like dynamite, bombs, grenades, missiles, and fire-starting devices, including small breakable containers with flammable liquid and a wick that one person can carry or throw. Fireman means a member of a fire department, including volunteers, at the state, local, or District of Columbia level. Law enforcement officer means a federal, state, local, or District of Columbia officer or employee enforcing criminal laws; it also includes National Guard, other state militia, and members of the Armed Forces when they are suppressing violence or restoring order during a civil disorder. State means any U.S. state and also commonwealths, territories, and possessions.