Ending Qualified Immunity Act

# Ending Qualified Immunity Act Summary **What It Would Do** This bill would eliminate "qualified immunity," a legal doctrine that currently protects government officials—primarily police officers—from being sued for damages in civil court. Under current law, officials can only be sued if they violated a "clearly established" constitutional right. This bill would remove that protection, making it easier for citizens to bring lawsuits against officials for alleged misconduct. **Who It Affects** The bill would primarily affect law enforcement and other government employees, who would face greater legal liability for their actions.

Citizens and families harmed by government officials would gain more opportunities to pursue civil lawsuits and seek monetary damages. Taxpayers could indirectly be affected, as municipalities often pay settlements from public budgets. **Key Provision** The main provision eliminates the qualified immunity defense entirely, allowing lawsuits to proceed based on whether an official violated someone's constitutional rights—without needing to prove that specific right was previously established in court precedent. **Current Status** As of now, the bill is in committee and has not advanced to a floor vote. It was introduced in the 119th Congress by Senator Edward Markey (D-MA).