The proposed bill introduces a new section to Chapter 9-1 of the General Laws titled "The Rhode Island Federal Constitution Defense Act." This legislation establishes a civil cause of action allowing individuals to sue persons acting under color of federal law for violations of rights, privileges, or immunities secured by the U.S. Constitution. The bill specifies that no immunities, whether provided under Rhode Island law or recognized under federal law, can be used as a defense in these cases.

Additionally, the bill sets a three-year statute of limitations for filing such actions, with provisions allowing individuals under disability to file within three years of the removal of their disability. It mandates that courts award reasonable attorneys' fees and costs to prevailing plaintiffs, and clarifies that a plaintiff can be deemed to have prevailed if their lawsuit was a substantial factor or significant catalyst in obtaining the desired results. The act also states that it does not impose additional duties on federal officials beyond those already established by the U.S. Constitution. This legislation is set to take effect upon passage.