Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB1138

Introduced
1/9/26  

Caption

Adopting Uniform Acts: in short title and definitions, further providing for definitions; in wills, further providing for validity of execution and for revocation of a will; providing for electronic wills; in dispositions independent of letters, family exemption, probate of wills and grant of letters, further providing for self-proved wills; providing for uniform electronic estate planning documents; and making conforming changes.

Impact

The enactment of SB1138 will significantly alter state laws regarding wills and estate planning by permitting electronic versions of wills, which can be executed and revoked electronically. This promotes greater accessibility and flexibility for individuals looking to create estate plans, particularly in a digital age where technology is pervasive. Implementing these changes may also reduce the administrative burden on families when dealing with estate matters, as electronic documents can be easier to manage and store than traditional paper documents.

Summary

Senate Bill 1138 focuses on modernizing estate planning laws in Pennsylvania by adopting uniform acts that include provisions for electronic wills and electronic estate planning documents. The bill proposes amendments to Title 20 (Decedents, Estates and Fiduciaries) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, specifically addressing the validity of electronic wills and the requirements for their execution. It aims to streamline the estate planning process and recognize the growing relevance of electronic documentation in legal contexts.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB1138 relate to the validity and security of electronic documents in estate planning. Critics may argue about potential risks associated with electronic wills, such as issues with identity verification, copyright, or fraud. Advocates for electronic wills emphasize that these electronic measures can be put in place to mitigate risks and that the benefits of accessibility and efficiency far outweigh the downsides. Overall, discussions about the bill underscore a tension between traditional practices in estate planning and the necessity to adapt to modern technological advancements.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB167

In dispositions independent of letters, family exemption, probate of wills and grant of letters, further providing for payments to family and funeral directors.

PA HB1976

In dispositions independent of letters, family exemption and probate of wills and grant of letters, further providing for payments to family and funeral directors.

PA HB1176

In intestate succession, further providing for shares of others than surviving spouse; and, in dispositions independent of letters, family exemption, probate of wills and grant of letters, further providing for payments to family and funeral directors.

PA SB1203

In dispositions independent of letters, family exemption, probate of wills and grant of letters, providing for small estate primary residence affidavit.

PA HB2172

In dispositions independent of letters, family exemption, probate of wills and grant of letters, providing for small estate primary residence affidavit.

PA HB2299

In wiretapping and electronic surveillance, further providing for definitions; and, in recordings by law enforcement officers, further providing for definitions.

PA HB77

In food protection, further providing for definitions, providing for food allergy awareness and further providing for powers of department.

PA HB711

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in exemptions, applicability and penalties, further providing for exemptions.

PA HB1873

In offenses against the family, further providing for the offense of endangering welfare of children; in child protective services, further providing for definitions and for exclusions from child abuse; and, in juvenile matters, further providing for definitions.

PA HB2074

In voter registration, further providing for residence of electors; and, in uniform military and overseas voters, further providing for definitions.

Similar Bills

PA HB1970

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in licensing of drivers, further providing for issuance and content of driver's license and for carrying and exhibiting driver's license on demand.

NV AB18

Revises provisions relating to the electronic filing of certain documents. (BDR 5-469)

TX SB1531

Relating to the electronic payment of ad valorem taxes; authorizing a fee.

PA SB861

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in licensing of drivers, further providing for issuance and content of driver's license and for carrying and exhibiting driver's license on demand.

MD SB842

Electronic Smoking Devices - Seizure and Wholesaler Record-Keeping Requirements

NJ S1336

The "Uniform Electronic Wills Act"; authorizes electronic wills.

NJ A3229

The "Uniform Electronic Wills Act"; authorizes electronic wills.

CA AB1800

Portable electronics and optical products insurance.