Nebraska Legislature Bill LB68

Nebraska 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/5/23
• Refer: 1/9/23
• Engrossed: 2/16/23
• Failed: 6/1/23

Caption

Increase limits on medical malpractice liability and change provisions of the Nebraska Hospital-Medical Liability Act

Impact

If enacted, LB68 would modify the landscape of medical malpractice in Nebraska by potentially increasing the costs of healthcare liability insurance for providers. Supporters of the bill argue that higher liability limits may enhance the protection of patients by ensuring that sufficient compensation is available for malpractice victims. However, this may also lead to increased insurance premiums, which could affect healthcare costs more broadly within the state. The bill intends to strike a balance between safeguarding patient rights while minimizing unnecessary burdens on healthcare providers.

Summary

LB68 introduces significant changes to the medical malpractice liability framework in Nebraska. Specifically, it aims to increase the limits on medical malpractice liability, which has been a point of concern among healthcare providers and legal experts. The bill reevaluates the existing provisions of the Nebraska Hospital-Medical Liability Act, an important piece of legislation that governs liability matters for healthcare facilities and professionals. By adjusting the liability limits, the bill seeks to address concerns over inadequacies in current levels that may leave healthcare providers vulnerable to financial risks associated with malpractice claims.

Contention

The discussions surrounding LB68 revealed some contention, especially regarding the implications of increasing liability limits. Advocates in favor argue that the changes are essential to modernize protections for patients and to ensure that adequate recovery options are available in cases of malpractice. Detractors, including certain healthcare providers and insurance representatives, express concern that raising these limits could lead to a surge in malpractice claims, inflated insurance costs, and potentially impact the availability of certain medical services. The legislative debate highlights these divergent perspectives on how best to manage medical malpractice risks in Nebraska.