Under Color of Law Accountability Act

Protection against excessive force: The bill makes it unlawful for those acting under color of law to intentionally use excessive force that causes bodily injury, providing a legal deterrent against such actions (Section 1641(a)).

Increased penalties for severe violence: For offenses involving excessive force that result in death, kidnapping, or attempted kidnapping, the bill provides for harsher penalties of up to 30 years in prison (Section 1641(a)(2)).

Accountability for bystanders with a duty to act: Individuals who have the duty, opportunity, and ability to intervene but choose not to stop excessive force can be held liable (Section 1641(c)).

Prevention of theft by officials: The bill prohibits people acting under color of law from knowingly converting money, personal property valued at more than $25.00, or controlled substances to their personal use (Section 1642(a)).

Protection of evidence and recording: The bill prohibits the destruction of recording devices or the use of force and intimidation to prevent people from recording law enforcement activity in public or authorized private settings (Section 1643(a)).

Extended window for justice in fatal cases: For offenses resulting in death, there is no limitation on when an indictment or information may be instituted (Section 1644(a)).

Criminal liability for failing to intervene: Those acting under color of law who have the duty and ability to stop excessive force but fail to take reasonable steps can face the same penalties as the person using the force (Section 1641(c)).

Significant prison terms for obstruction: Persons found to be obstructing or concealing violations through the destruction of evidence or intimidation can face up to 20 years in prison, or 30 years if death results (Section 1643(b)).

Strict statute of limitations for most offenses: For offenses that do not involve death, the indictment or information must be instituted within 7 years of the offense being completed (Section 1644(b)).