Panel approves bill to tighten notice rules in default-damages proceedings

The committee advanced SB 532 (LC 620321), a procedural bill designed to ensure that parties in default-judgment or damages proceedings continue to receive notice for key hearings so outcomes are not later reopened due to lack of notice.

Sponsor (speaker 19) said the bill closes a loophole in which parties who fail to file pleadings could be treated as having waived notice, creating post-judgment challenges that slow court calendars and increase costs for plaintiffs and defendants. The bill would require serving notice as provided in the statute and filing certificates of service where appropriate; sponsor and committee members discussed practical effects in courts that schedule many damage hearings.

Committee members voiced support for clarifying the law and voted to advance the bill. The committee adjourned after the vote.