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Bill

Bill

S 4999

Relates to the disqualification of a surviving spouse

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Brad Hoylman-Sigal and 1 co-sponsor

Bill S 4999 establishes criteria to disqualify surviving spouses from benefits due to misconduct, clarifying their rights and impacting estate management.

REFERRED TO JUDICIARY
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 4999

Summary of Bill S 4999: Disqualification of a Surviving Spouse

Bill Number: S 4999
Title: Relates to the disqualification of a surviving spouse
Status: Referred to Judiciary
Introduced: February 14, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 4999 aims to establish criteria under which a surviving spouse may be disqualified from receiving certain benefits or entitlements following the death of their partner. The intent of this legislation is to clarify the legal framework surrounding the rights of surviving spouses, particularly in cases involving misconduct or other specified circumstances.

Key Provisions

While the specific text of the bill is not provided, the following key provisions can be anticipated based on the title and legislative context:

  • Disqualification Criteria: The bill likely outlines specific conditions under which a surviving spouse may be disqualified from receiving benefits. This may include instances of abandonment, abuse, or other forms of misconduct.

  • Legal Definitions: The bill may provide definitions for terms such as "surviving spouse," "benefits," and the specific grounds for disqualification to ensure clarity in enforcement.

  • Procedural Guidelines: The legislation may establish procedures for how disqualification claims are to be processed, including any necessary hearings or appeals.

Affected Parties

  • Surviving Spouses: Individuals who may be impacted by this bill include those who are legally recognized as surviving spouses and could face disqualification from benefits.

  • Estate Administrators: Those responsible for managing the estates of deceased individuals may need to navigate new legal requirements regarding the distribution of assets and benefits.

  • Legal Practitioners: Attorneys and legal advisors will need to understand the implications of this bill to effectively counsel clients regarding estate planning and family law.

Legislative Timeline

  • February 14, 2025: Bill S 4999 was introduced and referred to the Judiciary Committee.

  • February 25, 2025: The bill was reported for the first time (1st Report Cal. 372).

  • February 26, 2025: The bill was reported for the second time (2nd Report Cal.).

  • March 3, 2025: The bill advanced to a third reading in the Senate.

  • March 4, 2025: The bill passed the Senate and was subsequently delivered to the Assembly.

  • March 5, 2025: The bill was referred to the Judiciary Committee in the Assembly for further consideration.

Related Bills

This bill is related to several prior-session bills, which may provide context or precedent for its provisions:

  • S 6640
  • S 3345
  • S 720
  • S 3260
  • A 7069 (companion bill)

Conclusion

Bill S 4999 seeks to clarify the legal standing of surviving spouses in relation to benefits following the death of a partner. By establishing clear disqualification criteria, the bill aims to address potential abuses of the system while ensuring that the rights of surviving spouses are adequately protected. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, further details will emerge regarding its specific provisions and implications.

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

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