CA AB2442

Prohibits state and regional water quality control boards and their employees from being held liable in civil proceedings for trespass or other acts necessary to carry out investigations, cleanup, abatement, or remedial work.

Prevents boards and authorized persons from incurring obligations to undertake additional investigation, cleanup, abatement, or remedial work solely because they decided to conduct initial remedial work.

Defines "authorized person" to include board employees, independent contractors, and persons contracted to perform remedial work, along with their employees and contractors.

Applies these liability protections to claims presented on or after January 1, 2015, or to civil complaints and writ petitions filed on or after that date.

Clarifies that these provisions do not impair the board's ability to pursue causes of action against responsible parties or limit other applicable legal defenses.