House Judiciary Committee members advanced House Bill 1176, a measure to increase the dollar threshold at which owners can claim unclaimed property from $11,000 to $20,000.

Representative Cerisi, the bill sponsor, told the committee the change is intended to make it easier for families to recover money. "This bill is a simple bill. We're looking to increase, the eligibility to be able to get money from unclaimed property from 11,000 to 20,000. The last time it was changed is 02/2002. This bill is supported by the treasurer," Cerisi said.

The committee counsel, Counsel Vitale, confirmed administrative details: "Mister chairman, the bill takes effect in a hundred and 80 days. There are no amendments." The chair then asked if there were any objections; none were raised and the committee agreed to report the bill out for further action.

Why it matters: Committee members said increasing the threshold would ease recovery by families and reduce administrative friction for smaller claims. The measure does not change the broader statutory framework for unclaimed property beyond raising the monetary threshold.

Context and next steps: Committee records show the threshold was last adjusted in February 2002. The committee reported the bill out with unanimous support; counsel noted the bill takes effect in 180 days. Further floor scheduling and any additional amendments would occur at subsequent legislative steps.