District of ColumbiaB26-0674Council Period 26 (2025-2026)House

Strengthening Probate Administration Emergency Amendment Act of 2026

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.

More publication options for estate notices

Required probate notices can appear in a legal periodical or a newspaper of general circulation in the District of Columbia. This covers formal probate requests and notices from outside representatives handling estates with property in the District. It also covers appointment notices for interested people, creditors, and unknown heirs. This option applies as of May 14, 2026, under an emergency act lasting no longer than 90 days after taking effect.

Simpler estate handling with court checks

In the District of Columbia, an interested person can petition for abbreviated probate without formal probate’s advance notice. This process handles a will, or determines that no will exists, and appoints someone to manage the estate. Appointment means administration without court supervision unless the order says otherwise; deciding supervision cannot delay appointment. A will is presumed properly signed and can be accepted based on witness attestations or a verified statement of personal knowledge. The Register of Wills can require more verified proof and refer appointment and will acceptance questions to the court. The law also removes a reference to accepting a will in property transfers by affidavit. It clarifies that the 2024 probate law covers estates of people who died on or after March 21, 2025. These emergency changes apply as of May 14, 2026; the emergency act lasts no longer than 90 days after taking effect.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Brooke Pinto
Democratic • House

Cosponsors

There are no cosponsors for this bill.

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 13 • No: 0

House vote • 5/5/2026

Final Reading