SB 1563
Allows a person who has been deprived of rights, privileges or immunities secured by the Oregon Constitution or the laws of this state by a person acting under color of law to bring a civil action for economic and noneconomic damages and for injunctive or other equitable relief.
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Sign in to take actionPublic sentiment
Support
90%
Oppose
10%
- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill allows individuals who have had their rights, privileges, or immunities – as protected by the Oregon Constitution or state law – violated by someone acting under the color of law (like a law enforcement officer) to sue for both economic and non-economic damages, as well as seek injunctive relief. The bill also establishes rules for awarding attorney fees to both the winning plaintiff and the winning defendant, with the defendant only receiving fees if the plaintiff’s claim is deemed frivolous.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsors
Arguments in favor
Reasons to support this legislation.
Supporters of Senate Bill 1563 generally express strong support for the bill, citing its importance in ensuring equal rights under the law, protecting individual constitutional rights, and providing a mechanism for holding government accountable. Many the bill strengthens accountability and justice by establishing a clear pathway for redress when constitutional rights are violated, allowing citizens to seek remedy when their rights are denied or deprived. Some argue that the bill is necessary to address the lack of teeth in current civil justice systems and to restore the right to hold the government accountable, referencing founding principles of the US democratic republic. Additionally, supporters see the bill as a means to promote accountability among state legislators and give power back to Oregon's citizens, allowing them to challenge unconstitutional laws and ensure access to justice.
Source: Testimony Summaries
Arguments opposed
Reasons to oppose this legislation.
The opposition to Senate Bill 1563 is primarily centered on concerns about increased litigation, legal defense costs, and insurance burdens for special districts statewide. that the bill would create unnecessary complexity and financial strain on these entities. Additionally, some have raised questions about the bill's potential impact on Federal Officers engaged in Immigration matters, suggesting that it may inadvertently bypass their immunity from Tort and Constitutional violations.
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