SB-66
Justice & Public Safety
Civil discovery.
Introduced
California
2025-2026 Regular Session
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Key Takeaways
  • Makes permanent the requirement for parties in civil lawsuits to provide detailed initial disclosures about witnesses, documents, and insurance policies within 60 days of a demand.
  • Requires parties to share contact information for potential witnesses and copies of relevant documents even before formal discovery requests.
  • Allows parties to request updated information through supplemental demands twice before trial and once after trial date is set.
  • Exempts small claims cases, unlawful detainer actions, family law matters, and parties without legal representation from these disclosure requirements.
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Progress
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Bill has been formally introduced and read for the first time in its house of origin (1/13/2025)
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Summary

Senator Umberg's proposal to permanently establish California's civil discovery disclosure requirements would eliminate the January 1, 2027 sunset date for current rules requiring parties in civil actions to provide detailed initial disclosures within 60 days of a demand.

Under the continued framework, parties must disclose names and contact information of individuals likely to have discoverable information, provide copies or descriptions of relevant documents and electronic records, and reveal insurance policies that could satisfy potential judgments. The requirements allow parties to make supplemental demands twice before trial and once after the initial trial date, with courts maintaining authority to grant one additional supplemental demand upon showing good cause. All disclosures must be verified through written declaration or counsel signature.

The measure maintains existing exemptions for specific proceedings, including unlawful detainer actions, small claims cases, family law matters, probate proceedings, and cases granted preference. The requirements also continue to exclude unrepresented parties. These provisions apply to civil actions filed on or after January 1, 2024.

Author
Tom Umberg
Tom UmbergD
California State Senator
Community Outlook
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Total Votes: 0
Key Dates
Introduced. Read first time. To Com. on RLS. for assignment. To print.
Senate Floor
Introduced. Read first time. To Com. on RLS. for assignment. To print.
Introduced. Read first time. To Com. on RLS. for assignment. To print.
Latest Voting History
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