Bill > AB331

This bill establishes a new legal mechanism for individuals to seek recourse when their civil rights have been violated by persons acting under color of law (meaning government officials or those performing official functions). Under the proposed law, any person who has been deprived of their constitutional or legal rights, or whose rights have been interfered with through threats, intimidation, or coercion, can file a civil lawsuit against the responsible party, which could include the state, its political subdivisions, departments, agencies, or instrumentalities. The bill allows plaintiffs to seek damages and injunctive relief, and critically, requires courts to award reasonable attorney fees and costs to prevailing plaintiffs. The legislation sets a six-year statute of limitations for filing such actions, meaning plaintiffs must bring suit within six years of the alleged violation, and explicitly states that existing limitations on civil actions against government entities (sections 893.80 and 893.82) do not apply to these civil rights violation claims. The bill is designed to provide a robust legal pathway for individuals to protect their civil rights and seek compensation when those rights have been infringed upon by government actors.

Justice

https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/2025/proposals/reg/asm/bill/ab331