SAFE Act of 2025

This bill strengthens the federal Privacy Act. If a federal worker intentionally misuses someone’s personal information and it causes real harm, the harmed person can sue that worker personally in federal court. The worker can’t claim they’re protected from being sued, and may have to pay damages out of their own pocket. The government won’t cover that amount. If the Justice Department defends the worker and the court finds the worker acted on purpose, the worker must repay the government for the cost of that legal defense. The bill also lets state attorneys general sue on behalf of their residents for intentional or willful Privacy Act violations by agencies or federal workers. It adds a definition for certain “special Government employees” covered by the law, generally those in GS-13 or higher roles, not including interns or advisory committee members.

Key points:

• Who is affected: People harmed by Privacy Act violations; federal workers and certain special government employees; state residents via their attorney general .
• What changes: Allows personal lawsuits against federal workers for intentional Privacy Act violations; no legal immunity; workers pay damages themselves; possible repayment of Justice Department defense costs; state attorneys general can bring cases for residents .