IA
Iowa Senate Bill SF189

Iowa 2025-2026 Regular Session

Iowa Senate Bill SF189

Introduced
2/3/25  

Caption

A bill for an act relating to medical malpractice by exempting claims involving sexual assault from the limitations on noneconomic damages.

Impact

The implications of SF189 could lead to broader accountability for healthcare providers involved in sexual misconduct. By exempting sexual assault cases from damage limitations, the bill aims to empower victims to pursue justice without the restrictions typically imposed by existing malpractice laws. This could potentially encourage more individuals to come forward with their claims, knowing that they may receive fair compensation reflective of their suffering. However, it may also generate broader discussions within the medical community regarding liability and professional conduct, pushing for higher standards of patient care and ethical practices.

Summary

Senate File 189 (SF189) introduces significant changes to Iowa's medical malpractice legislation, specifically focusing on personal injury actions involving sexual assault claims against healthcare providers. The bill seeks to exempt such claims from the usual limitations on noneconomic damages that often restrict the compensation awarded to victims. This means that if a healthcare provider is found to have committed an act of sexual nature, even if presented under the guise of medical treatment, the limitations on damages would not apply. The legislative intent behind this proposal is to better support victims of sexual assault within medical settings, acknowledging the gravity of such violations and the potential for extensive emotional and psychological harm.

Contention

While the bill is meant to protect victims, it may face opposition centered around concerns regarding the financial implications on healthcare providers. Critics argue that lifting limitations on damages could expose medical professionals to heightened risks of lawsuits, which may discourage them from practicing in high-stakes environments. Additionally, professional organizations may express reservations regarding how this bill could affect the overall medical malpractice insurance landscape. Balancing victim rights with the operational realities of healthcare practice will likely be a central point of contention as discussions progress.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

IA SF2175

A bill for an act relating to medical malpractice by exempting claims involving sexual assault from the limitations on noneconomic damages.

IA SF2224

A bill for an act relating to tort liability in civil actions involving commercial motor vehicles, including employer liability, noneconomic damages, punitive damages, and exemplary damages.

IA SF2035

A bill for an act relating to statute of repose in medical malpractice claims.

IA HF2127

A bill for an act relating to statute of repose in medical malpractice claims.

IA SF2220

A bill for an act relating to noneconomic, punitive, and exemplary damage awards against health care providers and hospitals.

IA HF201

A bill for an act relating to tort liability, including employer liability and noneconomic damages in civil actions involving commercial motor vehicles, and punitive or exemplary damages in civil actions generally.(Formerly HSB 114.)

IA SSB1114

A bill for an act relating to tort liability, including employer liability and noneconomic damages in civil actions involving commercial motor vehicles, and punitive or exemplary damages in civil actions generally.(See SF 228.)

IA HSB114

A bill for an act relating to tort liability, including employer liability and noneconomic damages in civil actions involving commercial motor vehicles, and punitive or exemplary damages in civil actions generally.(See HF 201.)

IA SF524

A bill for an act relating to the statute of limitations in a civil action involving certain sexual offenses against a minor.(Formerly SSB 1194.)

IA SSB1063

A bill for an act relating to noneconomic damage awards against health care providers.(See SF 148.)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.