Adopt the Asbestos Trust Claims Transparency Act and the Asbestos Claims Priorities and Claims Legitimacy Act and change a statute of limitations
Impact
If enacted, LB95 will introduce significant changes to state laws governing asbestos claims. The legislation will alter existing statutes of limitations related to such claims, thereby affecting the timeframe within which individuals can file for compensation. Supporters argue that these changes will fortify the legal framework, allowing for clearer boundaries regarding the handling of asbestos cases, which have been mired in controversy due to perceived exploitation of the system. They suggest that the bill will ultimately ensure that legitimate claimants receive the compensation they deserve while deterring fraudulent claims.
Summary
LB95, known as the Asbestos Trust Claims Transparency Act and the Asbestos Claims Priorities and Claims Legitimacy Act, aims to reform the way asbestos-related claims are processed and handled in the state. The bill introduces measures to enhance transparency in the submission of claims to ensure that such claims are legitimate and prioritized appropriately. This initiative seeks to prevent fraudulent claims and protect the integrity of the claim process by necessitating a more rigorous verification of asbestos trust claims before they can be accepted by the courts.
Contention
The discussions surrounding LB95 reveal notable contention among stakeholders. Proponents of the bill, primarily from business and legal circles, advocate that it will streamline the claims process and bring overdue accountability to asbestos lawsuits. However, critics express concern that measures within the bill could limit access to justice for legitimate victims suffering from asbestos-related diseases. They fear that the heightened scrutiny and changes to the statute of limitations might disproportionately disadvantage those affected, particularly individuals who may not be aware of their rights under the new provisions.
Adopt the State and Political Subdivisions Child Sexual Abuse Liability Act and exempt actions from the State Tort Claims Act and Political Subdivisions Tort Claims Act
Interim study to examine the frequency of claims brought under the Political Subdivisions Torts Claims Act and the State Tort Claims Act and the frequency of tort claims brought against other states
Change provisions of the Political Subdivisions Tort Claims Act and the State Tort Claims Act to allow certain claims by prisoners, detainees, and children in the custody, care, or control of a government entity