Bill > SB176

This bill, titled the "No Kings Act," establishes a legal avenue for individuals in Colorado whose constitutional rights have been violated by someone acting under the authority of law, statute, ordinance, regulation, custom, or usage, whether at the federal, state, or local level. It allows injured parties to sue for legal or equitable relief, meaning they can seek monetary damages or court orders to correct the violation. The bill also permits defendants to raise defenses of absolute or qualified immunity, similar to protections available in federal lawsuits under 42 U.S.C. § 1983, which generally shield government officials from liability unless their actions were clearly unlawful or malicious. Importantly, lawsuits under this act must be filed within two years of the violation occurring. The bill also includes provisions for awarding attorney fees to prevailing plaintiffs, though with limitations for actions against judicial officers, and allows for awarding costs and attorney fees to defendants if claims are found to be frivolous.