Connecticut Senate Bill SB00362

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/19/17
• Refer: 1/19/17

Caption

An Act Concerning The Claims Against The State Of Sarah Demaria And Paul Demaria.

Impact

If enacted, SB00362 would amend existing general statutes to allow the DeMarias to bypass previous procedural obstacles related to their claims. This means that the state would potentially face legal challenges regarding the adequacy of care and the procedures followed by its employees in the medical diagnosis process. The outcome of these claims could lead to changes in how the state addresses similar situations in the future, potentially prompting a review of protocols and standards in healthcare provided through state funding.

Summary

SB00362 is a legislative proposal aimed at allowing Sarah DeMaria and Paul DeMaria to present claims against the state of Connecticut regarding alleged negligence linked to the misdiagnosis of a terminal illness. The bill is a response to claims that state employees or agents failed to properly diagnose Sarah DeMaria's illness in 2010, which has significant implications for her treatment and legal recourse. The core purpose of the bill is to provide a pathway for these claims to be heard by the Claims Commissioner, who oversees such matters concerning the state.

Contention

There may be notable points of contention surrounding the bill, particularly regarding the implications of allowing claims against the state for negligence in medical cases. Opponents might argue that permitting such claims could lead to increased litigation costs for the state and the potential for a flood of similar claims, thereby affecting state resources and healthcare funding. Supporters, however, would argue that accountability for negligence is vital and that the bill serves to ensure justice for those affected by such serious oversights in care.