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H.R. 6091119th CongressIn committeeLatest action Nov 18, 2025Decoded by AI · checked against the record
The plain-language version leads. The official text is always the reference.
The Bivens Act of 2025 would let people sue federal officials for rights violations using the same process as state official lawsuits.
45-second read · 4 questions answered below
The bill amends the existing civil rights law, 42 U.S.C. 1983, to explicitly cover officials acting under U.S. government authority, not just state governments. This would let people sue federal agents or employees for constitutional rights violations in federal court, instead of relying on the more restrictive "Bivens" Supreme Court doctrine.
It would affect individuals who believe federal employees—including agents from agencies like the FBI, ICE, DEA, or Border Patrol—violated their constitutional rights through actions like unreasonable searches, excessive force, or unlawful arrest. It would also affect federal employees and agencies, who could face more lawsuits and financial liability.
Courts would play a central role in interpreting and applying this expanded legal remedy, and federal officials and agencies could face increased litigation and liability exposure.
AI-drafted summary. Verify it against the official text before you act on it. Read the official bill on Congress.gov
Right now: a House committee is reviewing it. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the President.
Latest action: — Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.