This policy creates significant rule_of_law damage (4.5) by inverting traditional legal cost allocation and creating financial barriers to challenging DOJ actions, even when defendants prevail. Civil_rights impact (3.5) stems from chilling effect on exercising legal defenses. Precedent multiplier (1.2) applies as this establishes new cost-shifting framework. Mechanism modifier (1.15) for enforcement_action with moderate population impact. A-score: 24.18. B-score is elevated (45.89) due to high outrage potential of 'pay even if you win' framing, strong media narrative appeal, and moderate strategic indicators suggesting intentional policy announcement for deterrent effect. Delta of -21.71 clearly places this as List B - high distraction relative to constitutional damage.