WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 2445

To remove qualified immunity from officers serving no-knock warrants

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Elías Coop-González and 7 co-sponsors

House Bill 2445 removes qualified immunity for officers using no-knock warrants, allowing citizens to hold them accountable for excessive force or negligence.

To House Judiciary
#publicsafety
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 2445

Summary of House Bill 2445

Bill Number: HB 2445
Title: To Remove Qualified Immunity from Officers Serving No-Knock Warrants
Status: To House Judiciary
Introduced: February 3, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Public Safety

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 2445 aims to amend existing laws regarding law enforcement practices, specifically targeting the use of no-knock warrants. The primary intent of the bill is to remove qualified immunity for law enforcement officers who are found to have used excessive force or acted negligently while executing no-knock warrants. This legislation seeks to enhance accountability for officers and ensure that individuals affected by such actions have the ability to seek justice.

Key Provisions

  1. Removal of Qualified Immunity:

    • Officers serving no-knock warrants will not be eligible for qualified immunity if they are found to have:
      • Used excessive force.
      • Engaged in negligent behavior leading to injury, death, or psychological trauma.

  2. Court Review:

    • If a lawsuit or investigation arises due to a deprivation of rights as described, the court will review the officer's actions.
    • Should the court find that the officer committed a deprivation, the officer will be held personally liable for any financial or criminal findings.

  3. Training and Agency Accountability:

    • The court will also assess the training and standard operating procedures of the law enforcement agency involved.
    • If the agency is found negligent in preparing officers for situations involving no-knock warrants, it may also be held liable and included in any lawsuits.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Law Enforcement Officers: Officers executing no-knock warrants may face personal liability for their actions if found to have violated the provisions of this bill.
  • Law Enforcement Agencies: Agencies may be held accountable for inadequate training and procedures related to the execution of no-knock warrants.
  • Individuals Subject to No-Knock Warrants: Citizens affected by the use of excessive force or negligent actions during no-knock warrant executions would have the opportunity to seek legal recourse.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Timeline:
    • February 3, 2025: Bill filed with the Clerk by Rep. Amy Elik.
    • February 4, 2025: First reading and referred to the Rules Committee.
    • February 17, 2025: Introduced in the House and referred to the Judiciary Committee.

This bill represents a significant shift in the legal landscape surrounding law enforcement practices, particularly in relation to no-knock warrants, and aims to promote greater accountability and protection of civil rights.

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

Sign in to ask a question.