MA S2976

Creates a state-level civil rights cause of action allowing individuals to sue anyone who, acting under color of law (federal, state, or local), deprives them of rights secured by the U.S. Constitution

Mirrors the federal civil rights statute (42 U.S.C. § 1983) by providing the same defenses available under federal law, including qualified immunity

Limits injunctive relief against judicial officers to cases where a declaratory decree was violated or declaratory relief was unavailable

Entitles prevailing plaintiffs to recover litigation costs and reasonable attorneys' fees, consistent with 42 U.S.C. § 1988

Requires plaintiffs to notify the Massachusetts Attorney General when filing a claim and certify to the court that such notice was provided