To: Board of Supervisors
From: Supervisor Rex Bohn
Agenda Section: Initiated by Board Member
Vote Requirement: Majority
SUBJECT:
title
Authorize the County of Humboldt to Join the Tort Reform Coalition
end
RECOMMENDATION(S):
Recommendation
That the Board of Supervisors:
1. Authorize the County Administrative Officer to join the Tort Reform Coalition
Body
STRATEGIC PLAN:
This action supports the following areas of your Board’s Strategic Plan.
Area of Focus: Choose a topic.
Strategic Plan Category: 9999 - Core Services/Other
DISCUSSION:
The California Association of Joint Powers Authorities is seeking support for reforms including tort caps, proportional liabilities for economic damage and enhanced evidentiary standards for certain claims. It has created a working group referred to as the Tort Reform Coalition. Joining the Tort Reform Coalition gives counties an opportunity to help shape potential public agency tort reform before legislation is introduced. The coalition seeks balanced reforms that address rapidly rising liability costs, protect taxpayer resources, preserve funding for essential public services and ensure public agencies have a fair opportunity to defend themselves while maintaining access to justice for survivors.
Participation does not commit a county to supporting any specific legislation; rather, it demonstrates interest in collaborating on solutions, staying informed as proposals develop and ensuring county perspectives are represented during the legislative process. Early engagement is important because any legislative or budget proposal could move quickly, and counties that participate will be better positioned to evaluate their potential fiscal exposure and influence the outcome.
SOURCE OF FUNDING:
General Fund
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
There are no financial impacts associated with joining the coalition outside of staff time.
STAFFING IMPACT:
Staffing impacts associated with joining the coalition include increased workload.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
California Association of Joint Powers Authorities
Tort Reform Coalition agency partners (Attachment 1)
ALTERNATIVES TO STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Board discretion
ATTACHMENTS:
Tort Reform Letter dated June 19, 2026
PREVIOUS ACTION/REFERRAL:
Meeting of: N/A
File No.: N/A