Basic Corrections Officer: Certification Study Guide

To whom does 42 USC 1983 apply?

1. Only to government agents

2. Only to those already imprisoned

3. To every person

4. Only to inmates with a known history

The correct answer is: To every person

42 USC 1983 is a statute that allows individuals to file lawsuits for civil rights violations committed by someone acting under the authority of state law. This means it applies broadly and is not limited to specific groups like government agents or inmates with a known history. The statute encompasses actions taken by government officials or agents, which includes law enforcement and correctional officers, against any person, making it applicable to everyone. By including "to every person," the statute emphasizes that anyone, regardless of their status—be it a citizen, a resident, or even a visitor—has the legal right to seek redress if they are deprived of their constitutional rights through the actions of individuals acting under state authority. This protection extends to various situations, ensuring that civil rights are upheld across various contexts. Thus, the broad applicability of 42 USC 1983 reinforces the principle that civil rights protections are available to all individuals in the United States.