Reform the Federal Tort Claims Act

Recent signers:
Robert Whitehead and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

The "Discretionary Function Exception" of the Federal Tort Claims Act currently shields misconduct under the guise of protection for law enforcement officers, effectively making them unaccountable for their actions. This exception was perhaps originally intended to allow for discretionary judgment in enforcing the law, but it has been misconstrued, giving rise to a toxic culture where abuse goes unchecked and constitutional rights are routinely violated.

Consider this: a citizen wronged or harmed by a law enforcement officer's actions often finds themselves without recourse, all because the officer's conduct is protected under this blanket exception. The exception essentially nullifies citizens' ability to sue the government when they fall victim to official misconduct, even when it violates the rights guaranteed under the Constitution. 

It's time for Congress to take meaningful action. Reform, repeal, or replace the "Discretionary Function Exception" and restore accountability and trust in law enforcement. Safe, effective, and constitutional policing should not come at the cost of citizen's rights and protections.

We propose a full review and overhaul of this provision. The outdated legal shield must be replaced with a streamlined process that holds law enforcement and government entities accountable for their actions while preserving their ability to function effectively. Potential solutions include establishing a standard of review for what truly constitutes "discretionary" conduct, providing citizens an avenue to seek justice when harmed by official actions, and improving oversight and transparency in law enforcement practices. 

Join us in urging Congress to take decisive steps in reforming this critical aspect of our legal system. Sign this petition to demand the accountability and justice that our citizens deserve and contribute to a nation where federal laws defend the constitution, not undermine it. By signing this petition, you stand for justice, transparency, and a fair balance of powers.

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Recent signers:
Robert Whitehead and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

The "Discretionary Function Exception" of the Federal Tort Claims Act currently shields misconduct under the guise of protection for law enforcement officers, effectively making them unaccountable for their actions. This exception was perhaps originally intended to allow for discretionary judgment in enforcing the law, but it has been misconstrued, giving rise to a toxic culture where abuse goes unchecked and constitutional rights are routinely violated.

Consider this: a citizen wronged or harmed by a law enforcement officer's actions often finds themselves without recourse, all because the officer's conduct is protected under this blanket exception. The exception essentially nullifies citizens' ability to sue the government when they fall victim to official misconduct, even when it violates the rights guaranteed under the Constitution. 

It's time for Congress to take meaningful action. Reform, repeal, or replace the "Discretionary Function Exception" and restore accountability and trust in law enforcement. Safe, effective, and constitutional policing should not come at the cost of citizen's rights and protections.

We propose a full review and overhaul of this provision. The outdated legal shield must be replaced with a streamlined process that holds law enforcement and government entities accountable for their actions while preserving their ability to function effectively. Potential solutions include establishing a standard of review for what truly constitutes "discretionary" conduct, providing citizens an avenue to seek justice when harmed by official actions, and improving oversight and transparency in law enforcement practices. 

Join us in urging Congress to take decisive steps in reforming this critical aspect of our legal system. Sign this petition to demand the accountability and justice that our citizens deserve and contribute to a nation where federal laws defend the constitution, not undermine it. By signing this petition, you stand for justice, transparency, and a fair balance of powers.

The Decision Makers

Donald Trump
President of the United States

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Petition created on January 17, 2026