Missouri Senate Bill SB987

Missouri 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/3/24
• Refer: 1/25/24

Caption

Provides that parties or attorneys in a civil action with a jury shall not make reference to specific dollar amounts or ranges of awards for noneconomic damages

Impact

The enactment of SB987 would have a significant impact on how cases involving noneconomic damages, such as pain and suffering or emotional distress, are litigated in Missouri. By eliminating references to dollar amounts, the bill aims to create a more impartial jury environment that allows jurors to make decisions based solely on the evidence presented, rather than fixed monetary expectations that could skew their judgment. This could lead to more uniform outcomes in jury awards, as jurors would rely on the merits of each case rather than predetermined financial figures.

Summary

Senate Bill 987 aims to amend chapter 537 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri by introducing a new section that governs the treatment of noneconomic damages in civil actions involving a jury. The bill stipulates that parties and their attorneys shall not refer to specific dollar amounts or ranges of awards for noneconomic damages during trial proceedings. This change is designed to prevent potential biases that could arise from jurors being influenced by specific financial figures.

Contention

There are notable points of contention surrounding SB987. Supporters argue that the bill will enhance the fairness of trials by reducing the potential for bias and compliance with equal treatment across similar cases. Conversely, critics may view it as an attempt to limit jurors' understanding of the potential implications of their decisions, arguing that it could lead to inadequate compensation for plaintiffs whose suffering cannot be quantified by a specific amount. The debate centers on balancing the need for fair jury decisions while ensuring that plaintiffs are adequately recognized for their damages.