Senate Bill 355 establishes a civil cause of action for individuals who have experienced violations of their civil rights, specifically due process or equal protection rights, as secured by the U.S. Constitution or Wisconsin state laws. The bill allows individuals who have been deprived of these rights by someone acting under color of law, or whose rights have been interfered with through threats, intimidation, or coercion, to sue for damages and seek injunctive relief. Importantly, the bill mandates that courts award reasonable attorney fees and costs to plaintiffs who prevail in their actions, and it stipulates that such actions must be initiated within six years of the alleged violation.

Additionally, the bill specifies that certain existing statutes, namely sections 893.80 and 893.82, do not apply to actions brought under this new provision, thereby allowing for a more straightforward path for plaintiffs seeking justice for civil rights violations. The bill is designed to enhance the protection of civil rights in Wisconsin by providing a clear legal avenue for individuals to hold violators accountable.