Censorship Accountability Act
Censorship Accountability Act
Plain Language Summary
# Censorship Accountability Act Summary **What the Bill Would Do** The Censorship Accountability Act would allow people to sue the federal government if they believe a federal employee violated their First Amendment rights (such as freedom of speech, religion, or press). Currently, such lawsuits face significant legal barriers. If passed, this bill would create a new legal pathway for citizens to seek damages against federal employees they claim restricted their constitutional speech rights while acting in an official capacity. **Who It Affects and Key Details** The bill would apply to federal employees in the Executive Branch (excluding the President and Vice President).
It would affect government agencies and their employees, as well as any citizens who believe their First Amendment rights were violated by federal action. The legislation also addresses government employee compensation and liability issues that would arise from such lawsuits. **Current Status** The bill was introduced in the Senate by Senator Eric Schmitt (R-MO) in the 119th Congress and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full Senate. No companion bill has been introduced in the House at this time.
CRS Official Summary
Censorship Accountability ActThis bill creates a new federal cause of action for the deprivation of any rights, privileges, or immunities secured by the First Amendment by a federal employee acting under color of any statute, ordinance, custom, or usage of the United States.The term federal employee means an individual, other than the President or Vice President, who occupies a position in the Executive Branch.
Latest Action
Read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.