California Allows People 80 and Older to Permanently Opt Out of Jury Duty

Overview

• Gov. Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 1359 to create a permanent exemption pathway for Californians age 80 and older who attest they have an impairment that prevents jury service.
• The measure lets qualifying seniors request a one-time attestation instead of repeatedly filing written excuses or providing medical documentation each time they are summoned.
• Assemblymember Patrick Ahrens introduced the bill after a constituent described difficulty securing exemptions for an elderly spouse, and the Alzheimer’s Association testified in support for people living with dementia.
• Supporters point to research showing many adults over 80 have functional limits and say the change will reduce stress for people with mobility problems, chronic conditions or limited internet access.
• Local jury offices must update procedures to accept attestation-based permanent exemptions, which could cut paperwork for courts and remove a recurring burden for vulnerable seniors.