AB 2690 Summary

• Renames the "Tort Claims Act" to the "Government Claims Act" and updates statutory references throughout California law to reflect this change.

• Amends Section 43.99 of the Civil Code to provide immunity from liability for qualified independent quality reviewers of residential building plans and construction work, provided they meet specific certification requirements and maintain $2 million in professional errors and omissions insurance.

• Modifies Section 1038 of the Code of Civil Procedure to allow courts to award defense costs to defendants in Government Claims Act proceedings when plaintiffs fail to bring actions in good faith and with reasonable cause.

• Updates Education Code and Government Code provisions governing closed sessions for student body organizations and local agencies to reference the Government Claims Act and clarify procedures for discussing pending litigation and liability claims.

• Includes conditional operative provisions coordinating with Senate Bill 1395 and Assembly Bill 1736 to incorporate amendments to Government Code Section 54954.5 regarding closed session agenda descriptions.