California 2025-2026 Regular Session

California Assembly Bill AB2529

Introduced
2/20/26  
Refer
3/9/26  
Report Pass
4/8/26  
Refer
4/13/26  

Caption

Civil claims: public entities and employees: declaration.

Impact

The main impact of AB 2529 is the reinforcement of the verification process in civil litigation involving public entities. By imposing a stringent verification requirement, the bill aims to streamline the claims process and reduce potential abuse of the system through false claims. Furthermore, it empowers public agencies to report suspected perjury to the district attorney, potentially leading to criminal investigations. This could result in reduced litigation costs for public agencies and enhance the integrity of the claims system.

Summary

Assembly Bill 2529, introduced by Assembly Member Johnson, aims to amend the Code of Civil Procedure and the Government Code regarding civil claims against public entities and their employees. The bill mandates that any civil complaint or cross-complaint filed by public employees or former employees seeking monetary damages must be verified under penalty of perjury. This requirement enhances the accountability of claimants by necessitating a declaration confirming the truth of their allegations, thereby discouraging frivolous claims.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding AB 2529 appears to be largely supportive among legislators concerned with improving the credibility of claims against public entities. Supporters argue that this bill is a necessary step to ensure that claims are presented with genuine facts, thus reducing the burden on the legal system. However, there are concerns regarding the potential chilling effect on legitimate claims, particularly if employees fear disciplinary repercussions or legal consequences for misjudgments regarding the truth of their claims.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the implications for claimants who may face increased scrutiny and legal liability. Critics argue that the heightened requirements might deter valid claims by creating a higher barrier for public employees seeking justice for wrongful acts committed by their employers. Additionally, the bill's stipulation that no reimbursement will be provided to local agencies for the costs incurred due to the automated enforcement of these new definitions of perjury could also raise concerns about funding and administrative burden on these entities.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CA AB614

Claims against public entities.

CA A2643

Bars public entities and public employees from entering into confidential settlements of claims against them; provides that such settlements constitute public records.

CA HB4327

Civil procedure: civil actions; false claims act; enact. Creates new act.

CA S2292

Bars public entities and public employees from entering into confidential settlements of "whistleblower" claims; provides that such settlements constitute public records.

CA S2095

"Government Reality Check Act"; prohibits public employers from providing certain benefits to public employees; restricts gifts to public employees; restricts travel by public employees; imposes post-employment restriction on public contracting employees.

CA HB2066

Requiring business entities and public employers to register and use the e-verify program for employment purposes and prohibiting income tax deductions for wages and remuneration paid to unauthorized aliens.

CA SB196

Requiring business entities and public employers to register and use the e-verify program for employment purposes and prohibiting income tax deductions for wages and remuneration paid to unauthorized aliens.

CA LB470

Provide for attorneys to make unsworn declarations under penalty of perjury in lieu of sworn declarations

CA SB1550

Creates provisions relating to certain declarations made to the Public Service Commission

CA SB38

Providing for liability for false claims, for adoption of congressional intent of the Federal False Claims Act, for damages, costs and civil penalties, for powers of Attorney General, for qui tam actions and for civil investigative demands.

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