Texas House Bill HB501

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to liability limits in a health care liability claim.

Impact

The proposed changes will apply to health care liability claims that accrue on or after the effective date of the bill. Claims originating before this date will continue to be governed by the laws in effect prior to the bill's enactment. This provision aims to provide clarity and continuity for ongoing cases while modernizing the regulations for new claims, thereby potentially impacting how courts assess damages based on the evolving economic landscape.

Summary

House Bill 501 proposes amendments to the Civil Practice and Remedies Code to introduce adjustments to liability limits in health care liability claims based on fluctuations in the consumer price index (CPI). This bill aims to ensure that the liability limits prescribed under current law are reflective of economic changes over time, specifically referencing the CPI data from September 1, 2003. By linking liability limits to the CPI, the bill seeks to address concerns that static limits may not adequately account for inflation and the rising costs of medical services.

Contention

There may be points of contention regarding the implementation of these amendments, particularly from stakeholders who argue that increasing liability limits could lead to higher insurance premiums for health care professionals. Opponents may express concerns about how this change could affect access to care and the obligation of providers to manage their liabilities effectively. Additionally, there may be debates on whether linking liability limits to CPI adequately protects both patients and health care providers, and whether it introduces a fair balance in liability claims.