Bill > SB1374

This bill adds Section 1713.5 to the Civil Code, establishing a new defense against liability for individuals or entities who acted in good faith and in conformity with a state agency's written guidance. Specifically, if a person can prove they sought and relied on a written order, ruling, approval, interpretation, or enforcement policy from the relevant state agency charged with overseeing a particular area of law, they will not be held liable for violating a civil statute or regulation, even if that agency guidance is later changed or found to be invalid. This defense applies retroactively to cases not yet finalized since January 1, 2013, and does not compel state agencies to issue such guidance.