What does Preamble of Constitutional Accountability Act do?

This bill aims to establish monetary damages liability for constitutional violations by law enforcement officers. The liability extends to the United States, States, and local governments.

What does SHORT TITLE. of Constitutional Accountability Act do?

This bill is formally titled the Constitutional Accountability Act.

What does FINDINGS. of Constitutional Accountability Act do?

This section outlines findings related to the 14th Amendment and its protections of fundamental rights and equality. It highlights the creation of section 1983 as a statutory remedy for constitutional violations, intended to provide federal oversight. The text expresses concern that the Supreme Court's interpretation of section 1983 limits its effectiveness. It contrasts the respondeat superior liability applied to private employers with the stricter 'policy or custom' standard for municipal defendants under the Monell doctrine. The summary criticizes the Monell doctrine as complex and inconsistent, and notes the lack of a statutory cause of action for constitutional violations by federal officials. It argues that the current liability regime is insufficient to ensure adequate police officer training, supervision, and discipline. The findings cite concerns about the lack of uniform standards for police training and instances of officers with prior misconduct being hired. The section asserts that Congress has the power under the 14th Amendment to create private remedies, including those against states, to enforce its provisions.

What does CIVIL ACTIONS FOR DEPRIVATION OF RIGHTS. of Constitutional Accountability Act do?

Section 1979 of the Revised Statutes (42 U.S.C. 1983) is amended to expand the definition of 'person' to include the United States, states, territories, local governments, and various agencies and entities. The definition of 'law enforcement officer' is broadened to include officers empowered by law to execute searches, seize evidence, or make arrests. A new subsection (c) establishes liability for a person (employer or contractor) when an employee or contractor acting as a law enforcement officer commits a violation of rights. Liability under subsection (c) is not affected by the employee or contractor's immunity or actions pursuant to policy or custom. Pursuant to section 5 of the 14th Amendment, states are not immune from suit under this section, overriding the Eleventh Amendment and state sovereign immunity. The United States waives its sovereign immunity for actions under subsection (c). The amendments clarify that no provision abolishes, repeals, or limits existing rights of action.

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Constitutional Accountability Act

Last updated: 11/18/2025 · Introduced: 11/18/2025

Author: Henry Johnson (D-GA)

TL;DR (AI)

This bill amends 42 U.S.C. 1983 to allow individuals to sue the United States, states, and local governments for constitutional violations committed by law enforcement officers.
The bill expands the definition of 'law enforcement officer' to include those empowered to execute searches, seize evidence, or make arrests.
It establishes liability for employers and contractors when their law enforcement employees or contractors violate constitutional rights, regardless of immunity or policy.

119th Congressin committeeS. 3186(In Committee)Official page

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Other Sections

Includes provisions on preamble, short title., and 2 more.

4 sections

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