S-1573 : Still Just a Bill

Andrew Kearse Accountability for Denial of Medical Care Act of 2021

This bill establishes a new federal criminal offense for failing to obtain medical attention for an individual in federal custody who displays medical distress.

Specifically, the bill requires federal law enforcement officers and the Bureau of Prisons' personnel to provide or obtain immediate medical attention for an individual in federal custody who displays medical distress. It criminalizes the negligent failure to obtain or provide such medical attention that results in unnecessary pain, injury, or death.

A violator is subject to criminal penalties—a fine, a prison term of up to one year, or both.

Action Timeline

Action DateTypeTextSource
2021-05-11IntroReferralRead twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.Senate
2021-05-11IntroReferralIntroduced in SenateLibrary of Congress

Policy Area :

Crime and Law Enforcement
See Subjects
  • Civil actions and liability
  • Correctional facilities and imprisonment
  • Criminal investigation, prosecution, interrogation
  • Detention of persons
  • Emergency medical services and trauma care
  • Employment and training programs
  • Government studies and investigations
  • Health care quality
  • Law enforcement administration and funding
  • Law enforcement officers

Related Bills

See Related Bills