California Bill to Ease Lawsuits Against Federal Agents Advances

The state Senate passed legislation that would create a legal pathway for residents to sue federal officers for alleged constitutional violations.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 11:31pm

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The California Senate has passed Senate Bill 747, which aims to ease restrictions on lawsuits against federal law enforcement officials. The bill, authored by Sen. Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco), would allow residents to sue federal agents for alleged violations of constitutional rights, such as excessive use of force, unlawful searches, and interference with the right to protest. The vote came amid national scrutiny following the deaths of two individuals in Minnesota involving federal agents.

Why it matters

Currently, it is more difficult to bring legal claims against federal officers than against state and local law enforcement. The bill seeks to address this disparity, arguing that individuals should have the same recourse regardless of whether the alleged violation is committed by a state or federal agent. This legislation represents a direct response to the Supreme Court's recent trend of limiting the ability to sue federal officials under the Bivens doctrine.

The details

Senate Bill 747 passed the California Senate by a vote of 30-10, along party lines, after previously clearing a Senate committee. Several state law enforcement agencies oppose the legislation, expressing concern that it could lead to an increase in lawsuits against local officers. Senator Tony Strickland (R-Huntington Beach) argued the bill is focused on immigration politics, while Senator Susan Rubio (D-West Covina) countered that the bill is about ensuring equal justice under the law and addressing the 'egregious violation of people's rights.'

  • The California Senate passed Senate Bill 747 on Tuesday.
  • The bill previously cleared a Senate committee.

The players

Scott Wiener

A Democratic state senator from San Francisco who authored Senate Bill 747.

Tony Strickland

A Republican state senator from Huntington Beach who opposed the bill, arguing it is focused on immigration politics.

Susan Rubio

A Democratic state senator from West Covina who supported the bill, arguing it is about ensuring equal justice under the law.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The bill now moves to the state Assembly. It remains unclear whether Governor Gavin Newsom will support the legislation if it reaches his desk.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.