H.R. 3603: Andrew Kearse Accountability for Denial of Medical Care Act of 2025 (119th Congress) Bill Summary

This bill, known as the Andrew Kearse Accountability for Denial of Medical Care Act of 2025, aims to establish requirements for federal officials to ensure that individuals in federal custody who show signs of medical distress receive timely medical attention. Below are the key provisions of the bill:

Definitions

Covered Officials: This includes federal law enforcement officers, officers or employees of the Bureau of Prisons, and employees of the United States Marshals Service.
Medical Distress: This term refers to conditions that indicate serious health issues, such as difficulties in breathing.

Requirements for Medical Attention

It is illegal for covered officials to negligently fail to provide immediate medical attention to individuals in federal custody showing signs of medical distress if that failure results in unnecessary pain, injury, or death.
If a covered official violates this requirement, they may face a fine, imprisonment for up to one year, or both.
State attorneys general can take civil action in cases where residents of their state have been harmed by a violation of this requirement.

Investigations

When negligence occurs, appropriate Inspectors General are responsible for investigating instances where a covered official failed to obtain or provide medical attention to someone in custody.
If negligence is found, the Inspector General must refer the matter to the Attorney General for potential prosecution.
A process will be established for individuals to confidentially submit complaints about negligent actions of covered officials.

Training Requirements

Agencies employing covered officials are required to provide training on how to obtain or provide medical assistance to individuals experiencing medical distress.

Conclusion

The act seeks to enhance accountability among federal law enforcement and prison officials regarding the health care of individuals in their custody, ensuring that those who are in medically distressing situations receive prompt attention to prevent unnecessary suffering.