Bill > SB01330

This bill modifies Connecticut's legal statute regarding how a lawsuit can be considered "commenced" in situations where the original action failed due to technical issues like insufficient service or jurisdictional problems. Specifically, the bill introduces a new provision that considers an action as commenced when the defendant (or their agent, representative, or insurer) receives the summons and complaint, even if formal service was not completed. The bill clarifies that this receipt is a "sufficient, but not exclusive" means of establishing the start of an action, which provides more flexibility for plaintiffs seeking to refile a case that was previously dismissed. The bill also includes important caveats: it does not automatically designate an insurer as an official agent for service, does not change existing service requirements, and does not impact determinations about insurance coverage or defense obligations. The changes are set to take effect on October 1, 2025, and are designed to help plaintiffs preserve their legal rights in cases where technical procedural issues might otherwise prevent them from refiling a lawsuit within the appropriate time limits.

Justice

Judiciary Committee (J)

https://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=SB01330&which_year=2025