HR 9060
To amend section 1979 of the Revised Statutes of the United States to clarify that States are persons for purposes of liability under that section, and for other purposes.
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- Passed House
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Bill overview
This bill clarifies that states are considered ‘persons’ under section 1979 of the Revised Statutes of the United States, which deals with civil rights violations. It aims to ensure states can be held liable for actions taken ‘under color of law’ – meaning actions performed by government officials in their official roles – that violate someone’s civil rights. The bill does not change existing liability rules for personal capacity lawsuits against officials, but seeks to provide more effective remedies for victims of civil rights abuses. It addresses legal uncertainties regarding state liability in these cases.
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Primary sponsor
Joseph P., III Kennedy
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