S. 1914 — Andrew Kearse Accountability for Denial of Medical Care Act of 2025

This section establishes a new criminal offense (18 U.S.C. §251) making it unlawful for covered federal officials—defined as federal law enforcement officers (as defined in 18 U.S.C. §115), Bureau of Prisons officers or employees, or United States Marshals Service officers or employees—to negligently fail to obtain or provide immediate medical attention to an individual in federal custody displaying medical distress (including breathing difficulties) in the official's presence, if that failure results in unnecessary pain, injury, or death. Violators are subject to a fine, imprisonment for not more than one year, or both. State attorneys general may bring civil actions for equitable or declaratory relief on behalf of state residents aggrieved by such violations. This section further requires the appropriate Inspector General to investigate all such incidents resulting in unnecessary pain, injury, or death; refer cases of negligence to the Attorney General for prosecution; and establish confidential complaint processes. Agency heads must provide training to covered officials on obtaining or providing medical assistance to individuals in medical distress. This section also makes a conforming amendment to the table of sections for 18 U.S.C. chapter 13.