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Bill

HD 1182

An Act relative to access to a decedent's electronic mail accounts

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Jeff Roy

Allows executors and estate administrators to access deceased persons' email and electronic accounts through a streamlined legal process rather than individual court orders.

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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HD 1182

Legislative bill overview

HD 1182 establishes a legal framework allowing executors, administrators, and other authorized persons to access deceased individuals' email accounts and electronic communications. The bill creates a process for obtaining digital access credentials and information from email service providers without requiring a separate court order for each account.

Why is this important

Digital assets and communications are increasingly central to estate management, financial affairs, and family information access. Without clear legal authority, executors may face barriers in settling estates, locating important documents, notifying contacts, or managing ongoing digital obligations—potentially causing delays and complications for grieving families.

Potential points of contention

  • Privacy concerns: Providing broad access to deceased persons' emails and messages raises questions about the privacy of the deceased's communications with others, and whether third parties mentioned in those communications have expectation of confidentiality.
  • Service provider liability: Email companies may resist provisions that expand their obligations to disclose account access, citing data protection responsibilities and concerns about authentication and fraud.
  • Definition of authorized persons: Disputes may arise over who qualifies as a legitimate "authorized person" and whether the bill adequately prevents misuse by estranged family members or unauthorized claimants to an estate.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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