That's not quite what GP is referring to. He is referring to government employees being immune, individually, against civil suits. As an example, the cops referred to in this article are likely immune from civil suits as their actions fall under their role as government agents. Sure, you can sue the NYPD, but even if they lose, who gives a shit? NYPD will pass the bills back to the city (?) who will pass it on to the taxpayer, either in the form of increased taxes or decreased services elsewhere. Only in exceptional cases will the asshat in the PD be held liable.