Bill > HB0577

This bill establishes a new state-law pathway for individuals in Utah to seek remedies when their federal constitutional rights are violated by government officials acting under the authority of law. Specifically, it allows citizens or anyone within Utah's jurisdiction who is injured by a government employee or agent acting "under color of law" (meaning they are using their official position to commit the violation) to sue that individual for damages, equitable relief (like court orders to stop certain actions), and attorney fees, but not punitive damages. This new right of action is only available if the injured person cannot already sue under federal law, such as through 42 U.S.C. Section 1983, or another existing state or federal law that provides a remedy for federal constitutional violations. The bill clarifies that this new law does not create any liability for government entities themselves, only for the individual officials involved, and it will apply to violations that occur on or after May 6, 2026.

https://le.utah.gov/~2026/bills/static/HB0577.html