WeVote
Log In

Bill

WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 149

Legislative bill overview

SB 149 provides legal immunity to electronic monitoring program operators and administrators in Indiana from liability claims arising from their conduct related to monitoring activities. The bill shields these entities from civil suits when they are performing duties within their authorized scope under electronic monitoring programs.

Why is this important

Electronic monitoring programs are widely used as alternatives to incarceration for people awaiting trial or serving sentences. Immunity provisions directly affect whether individuals harmed by monitoring program failures—such as privacy breaches, equipment malfunctions, or negligent oversight—can seek legal recourse. This balance between protecting program operators and holding them accountable affects thousands of Hoosiers in the criminal justice system.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of immunity: The breadth of "authorized scope" may be unclear, potentially shielding negligence or misconduct that should remain actionable
  • Due process concerns: Limiting civil liability options may leave affected individuals without meaningful remedies for violations of rights
  • Public oversight: Immunity can reduce incentives for program operators to maintain high safety and privacy standards when legal liability is eliminated

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.