Connecticut House Bill HB05760

Connecticut 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/21/11
• Refer: 1/21/11

Caption

An Act Limiting Noneconomic Damage Awards In Medical Malpractice Actions.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would significantly alter the landscape of medical malpractice litigation in the state. By imposing these limits, the bill is designed to protect health care providers from excessively large financial liabilities, which proponents argue will lead to more affordable medical care and lower insurance premiums. This shift could encourage more practitioners to operate within the state, potentially alleviating shortages in certain medical fields.

Summary

House Bill 05760, titled 'An Act Limiting Noneconomic Damage Awards In Medical Malpractice Actions,' proposes to limit the recovery amounts in medical malpractice lawsuits regarding noneconomic damages such as pain and suffering. Specifically, the bill seeks to set a cap of $250,000 for each health care provider and health facility involved per event, and an overall cap of $750,000 for the total damages from a single event. This legislative intent aims to address concerns regarding soaring insurance costs for medical professionals due to substantial awards in malpractice cases.

Contention

Opponents of the bill argue that such caps may undermine the rights of patients who have been severely harmed due to negligence. Critics express concern that limiting compensation for noneconomic damages does not adequately address the emotional and psychological impacts of medical malpractice on victims and their families. There are apprehensions that this legislation may create a more hostile environment for patients seeking legal recourse and may embolden negligence among health care providers by reducing their accountability.