Relating to eligibility to request a deposition before bringing a civil action.

HB 5134 allows individuals to petition a court for permission to take a deposition (pre-lawsuit questioning) before filing a civil lawsuit, either to preserve testimony for future use or investigate a potential claim. However, it requires that the person has already suffered or reasonably expects to suffer real financial harm from the potential claim. The bill penalizes improper requests by making violators liable for the other party's attorney fees. This law directly affects people planning civil lawsuits who seek early evidence gathering, with key provisions taking effect September 1, 2025.