Missouri House Bill HB2415

Missouri 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 5/13/22

Caption

Provides that a person who is injured by a product has 15 years after the sale or lease of the product to bring a suit for damages

Impact

The potential impact on state laws with the passage of HB 2415 is significant, as it would alter the existing legal timeframes set forth for product liability cases. By extending the period to bring forth claims to 15 years, the bill could lead to increased accountability for manufacturers and sellers of products. It may also encourage individuals who may have hesitated to pursue claims due to time constraints to come forward, allowing for more comprehensive consumer protection in cases of injury caused by faulty goods.

Summary

House Bill 2415 proposes that individuals injured by a product have a specific timeframe of 15 years from the date of sale or lease of the product to file a lawsuit for damages. This bill is aimed at modifying the current statute of limitations related to product liability, thereby allowing consumers more time to seek legal recourse for injuries sustained from defective or harmful products. Supporters of the bill argue that it provides necessary protections for consumers, ensuring they are not rushed into litigation before they may fully come to understand the harm caused by a product.

Contention

Notably, there is contention surrounding the implications of HB 2415. Critics of the bill have raised concerns about the potential for increased litigation and its impact on businesses, particularly small manufacturers and retailers. They argue that extending the statute of limitations could result in higher insurance costs, discourage innovation, and lead to uncertain legal consequences for product sales. Opponents fear that the bill may lead to a surge in lawsuits that could overwhelm the legal system as well as create a less favorable environment for businesses operating within the state.