Bill > A09092

This bill amends New York's civil rights law by adding a new section that establishes legal accountability for individuals who, while acting under the authority of any law, regulation, or custom, deprive citizens of New York or persons within the state's jurisdiction of their constitutional rights. Specifically, the bill creates a legal mechanism that allows individuals whose constitutional rights have been violated to pursue legal action (such as a lawsuit or equity suit) against the person responsible for the rights violation. The term "under color of" means that the person committing the rights violation is using their official position or pretense of official authority, even if their actions are not actually lawful. This bill essentially provides a state-level legal remedy similar to existing federal civil rights protections, allowing citizens to seek redress when their constitutional rights are violated by state or local officials or entities. The bill will go into effect 90 days after it becomes law, providing a clear path for individuals to defend their constitutional rights through the state court system.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A9092