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SB 29

Civil actions: decedent's cause of action.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Ash Kalra and 1 co-sponsor

SB 29 expands California law to allow more civil claims from deceased persons to be pursued by their estates or heirs, increasing potential liability for defendants in wrongful death cases.

Ordered to inactive file on request of Assembly Member Aguiar-Curry.
#civilactions #decedent'scauseofaction
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 29

Legislative bill overview

SB 29 modifies California law regarding civil causes of action that belong to a deceased person. The bill allows certain claims that would have died with the decedent to instead be pursued by their estate or heirs, expanding access to legal remedies for wrongful death or injury cases that occur before death.

Why is this important

This affects families seeking compensation for harms to deceased loved ones and determines what types of damages can be recovered in wrongful death litigation. It has financial implications for defendants (including businesses, medical providers, and government entities) who could face expanded liability, and it impacts the civil justice system's approach to posthumous remedies.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of recoverable claims: Disagreement over which specific causes of action should survive death (personal injury, emotional distress, statutory violations, etc.) and whether this expands liability too broadly
  • Defendant burden: Concerns that allowing more claims to proceed increases litigation costs and exposure for employers, healthcare providers, and institutions
  • Statutory interpretation: Debate over whether the bill properly balances common law traditions (where certain claims die with the person) against modern fairness arguments for families seeking justice and compensation

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

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