Assembly Bill 331 establishes a new civil cause of action for individuals who experience violations of their civil rights, specifically due process or equal protection rights, by persons acting under color of law. The bill allows affected individuals to sue for damages and seek injunctive or other appropriate relief against any person, including state entities. Additionally, it mandates that courts award reasonable attorney fees and costs to plaintiffs who prevail in these actions. Importantly, the bill stipulates that claims must be filed within six years of the alleged violation.

The bill also includes specific provisions that exempt actions under this new section from certain existing statutes, namely sections 893.80 and 893.82, which typically govern claims against governmental entities. This legislative change aims to enhance the ability of individuals to seek justice for civil rights infringements and ensure that they are not deterred by potential legal costs. The act will apply to causes of action that accrue on or after its effective date.