This bill creates a new federal crime for law enforcement officers, prison officials, and U.S. Marshals Service employees who negligently fail to provide immediate medical attention to people in their custody who show signs of medical distress, such as breathing difficulties. Violations can result in fines and up to one year in prison, and state attorneys general can also bring civil lawsuits seeking damages for injured residents. The legislation requires federal agency inspectors general to investigate incidents where someone in custody is harmed or dies due to delayed medical care, and to refer cases involving negligence to the Attorney General for prosecution. It also mandates that agencies employing these officials provide training on how to respond to medical emergencies. The bill is named after Andrew Kearse and aims to hold federal officials accountable when their inaction contributes to preventable suffering or death of people in federal custody.
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