Indefinitely postponed by Senate by Unanimous Consent.
Congressional Research Service
Official summary
Version 00 · Introduced in Senate · Jan 19, 1999
Y2K Act - Prohibits an action arising in a Federal or State court out of a year 2000 (Y2K) computer failure from proceeding to trial until the plaintiff has: (1) notified the defendant in writing, describing the particular Y2K failure; and (2) afforded such defendant the opportunity to fix the problem. States that damages in a Y2K action will be generally limited to economic loss, but provides an exception limiting damages of other than economic loss to the greater of three times the amount awarded for economic loss or $250,000. Prohibits damages other than economic loss from being awarded when the defendant demonstrates due diligence and reasonable care to prevent or remedy the Y2K failure. Provides: (1) several but not joint liability in such actions; and (2) for the appointment of a special master to make findings in such matters. Provides conditions under which an information technology product seller, renter, or lessor other than a manufacturer shall be liable to a claimant in a Y2K action.
Motion to proceed considered in the Senate. (consideration: CR S4160-4168)
Cloture motion on the motion to proceed to the bill presented in Senate. (consideration: CR S4092)
Motion to proceed to consideration of measure made in Senate. (consideration: CR S4092-4099)
Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 34.
Committee on Commerce. Reported to Senate by Senator McCain with an amendment in the nature of a substitute. With written report No. 106-10. Minority views filed.
Committee on Commerce. Reported to Senate by Senator McCain with an amendment in the nature of a substitute. With written report No. 106-10. Minority views filed.
Committee on Commerce. Ordered to be reported with an amendment in the nature of a substitute favorably.
Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR S1913)
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. Hearings held. Hearings printed: S.Hrg. 106-429.
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce.
Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR S530-531)
Introduced in Senate
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Source last updated: Sep 8, 2026. Consult Congress.gov for the current record.
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