Bill > HB1955

This bill establishes new legal provisions for civil actions against peace officers who violate constitutional rights. Specifically, the bill allows individuals to sue peace officers who deprive them of their constitutional rights under color of law, and removes traditional protections like qualified immunity and statutory limitations on damages. The bill mandates that courts must award reasonable attorney's fees to prevailing plaintiffs and allows for potential attorney's fees to defendants if the court finds claims to be frivolous. Importantly, the bill requires peace officers' employers to indemnify (financially protect) the officer for legal judgments, with a limited exception: if the employer determines the officer did not act in good faith, the officer will be personally liable for up to 5% of the judgment or $25,000, whichever is less. The bill also specifies that such civil actions must be commenced within two years of the incident, and explicitly states that a peace officer cannot be indemnified if they are criminally convicted for the conduct underlying the civil claim. This legislation significantly changes the legal landscape for holding peace officers accountable for constitutional rights violations by making it easier for individuals to sue and receive compensation.

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB1955&year=2026&code=R