SB 26-176

Senate Bill 26-176, which has now been signed into law, allows individuals in Colorado to sue government officials or other entities if those parties violate their constitutional rights. The bill sets a two-year time limit for filing such lawsuits and permits defendants to use the same immunity defenses used in federal cases. This affects anyone whose constitutional rights are violated by someone acting under state authority. Since it has been signed, this law is now active and enforceable in Colorado courts.

Official Summary

A person who, under color of any law, subjects, or causes to be subjected, another person to the deprivation of any rights, privileges, or immunities secured by the United States constitution is liable to the injured party for legal or equitable relief. A defendant may assert a defense of absolute or qualified immunity to the same extent as in certain federal actions alleging a deprivation of rights. An action alleging a deprivation of constitutional rights must be commenced within 2 years after the cause of action accrues.(Note: This summary applies to this bill as introduced.)

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