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Bill

Bill

AB 331

Relating to: establishing a civil cause of action for civil rights violations.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Deb Andraca and 27 co-sponsors

Overview: AB 331, a bill relating to establishing a civil cause of action for civil rights violations, had Senator Drake added as a cosponsor on January 27, 2025.Purpose and Intent

Representative Kirsch added as a coauthor
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Bill Summary · AB 331

Overview: AB 331, a bill relating to establishing a civil cause of action for civil rights violations, had Senator Drake added as a cosponsor on January 27, 2025.

Purpose and Intent: The primary goal of this legislation is to create a new civil cause of action that allows individuals to seek legal recourse for violations of their civil rights. The bill aims to provide an additional legal avenue for addressing discrimination, harassment, and other infringements on civil liberties.

Key Provisions:
- Establishes a civil cause of action for individuals whose civil rights have been violated
- Allows for the recovery of damages, including compensatory and punitive damages
- Shifts the burden of proof to the defendant to demonstrate that their actions were not a violation of civil rights
- Provides for the award of attorney's fees and court costs to successful plaintiffs

Affected Parties and Impacts: The bill would primarily benefit individuals who have experienced civil rights violations, as it would provide them with a new legal mechanism to seek redress. Conversely, it could impact organizations and individuals who may be subject to increased civil liability for civil rights infringements.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations: The bill is currently in the legislative process, with Senator Drake added as a cosponsor. The next steps would involve further committee review, potential amendments, and votes in both the Assembly and Senate before potentially being signed into law.

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

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