AB 331/SB 355: State Cause of Action for Civil Rights Violations

This bill creates an avenue for people to sue government entities (or individuals acting under the authority of the government) in state court for violating their civil rights.

This bill establishes a Wisconsin state civil cause of action for the violation of federal and state constitutional and statutory rights by anyone acting under the color of law.

It provides relief for civil rights violations in the form of monetary damages or injunctive relief in addition to attorneys fees.

Under the bill, a plaintiff must bring an action for a violation of the provisions in the bill within six years after the alleged violation occurs.