Connecticut House Bill HB05227

Connecticut 2013 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/13
• Refer: 1/11/13

Caption

An Act Requiring The Legislative Program Review And Investigations Committee To Study Access To Electronic Accounts By The Executor Or Administrator Of An Estate.

Impact

If enacted, the findings of the proposed study could lead to legislative recommendations or amendments concerning access to digital assets after an individual's death. The bill underscores the importance of updating existing laws to reflect current technological realities. In particular, it recognizes the need for clarity on the rights of executors and administrators when it comes to accessing and distributing electronic accounts, which may include bank accounts, investment accounts, and other financial resources maintained online.

Summary

House Bill 05227 proposes to require the Legislative Program Review and Investigations Committee to conduct a study focused on access to electronic accounts by the executor or administrator of an estate. The bill aims to examine the legal and practical challenges these individuals face regarding the distribution of assets contained in the decedent's electronic financial accounts. This study is intended to address the complexities that arise as the nature of assets evolves in the digital age, where many financial holdings are maintained exclusively in electronic form.

Contention

While the bill itself does not directly establish new regulations, it opens the door for potential debates regarding privacy, technology, and inheritance laws. Notable points of contention might arise from differing opinions about the extent to which executors should be granted access to a deceased person's digital accounts. Advocates for broader access might argue that executors require comprehensive tools to fulfill their fiduciary duties, while opponents might raise concerns regarding privacy rights of digital account holders, especially given that electronic accounts may contain sensitive information.