Rhode Island House Bill H8318

Rhode Island 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/29/24
• Refer: 5/29/24

Caption

Clarifies the statute of limitations for all causes of action not otherwise time barred that seek damages arising out of or related to the design/construction/supervision/or inspection of the Washington Bridge No. 700, located in East Prov. RI.

Impact

By setting a specific statute of limitations, HB H8318 creates legal certainty for both potential claimants and defendants regarding the time frame in which claims must be filed. This change could impact current and future litigants by limiting their time to seek damages, thereby influencing decisions surrounding the construction and maintenance practices of public infrastructure. Additionally, it is expected that the bill will help streamline case management in courts by preventing older claims from arising, which may be harder to litigate due to fading evidence and witnesses over time.

Summary

House Bill H8318 aims to clarify the statute of limitations for legal actions related to the Washington Bridge No. 700, located in East Providence, Rhode Island. The bill stipulates that any actions seeking damages arising from the design, construction, supervision, inspection, or related activities of the bridge must be initiated within ten years of the discovery of the claim or by December 31, 2033, whichever comes later. This legislative act is particularly important as it seeks to establish a clear timeline for potential claims associated with the bridge, potentially reducing uncertainties in legal proceedings.

Contention

While the bill primarily focuses on providing clarity and resolution concerning the statute of limitations, there may be points of contention around the appropriateness of a ten-year limitation period. Critics might argue that such a timeframe could be insufficient for claimants who might only discover damages related to construction defects after several years. Proponents, on the other hand, will likely assert that a defined period encourages timely litigations and prevents dilatory tactics in legal actions. The balance between protecting public interests and ensuring equitable access to the judicial system will be a significant theme in discussions surrounding this bill.