OK
Oklahoma Senate Bill SB1993

Oklahoma 2024 Regular Session

Oklahoma Senate Bill SB1993

Introduced
2/5/24  

Caption

Professional negligence; establishing statute of repose for certain actions. Effective date.

Impact

The introduction of this bill could significantly impact the legal landscape surrounding medical malpractice claims in Oklahoma. By imposing a ten-year timeline for filing lawsuits against health care providers, the bill aims to limit the exposure of these providers to perpetual liability, which proponents argue is essential for fostering a more sustainable healthcare system. Additionally, this change is likely to influence the behavior of both health care providers and patients, as the limitations on filing lawsuits may alter the dynamics of consent and accountability within medical practices.

Summary

Senate Bill 1993, introduced by Senator Garvin, addresses professional negligence by establishing a statute of repose for certain legal actions against health care providers. This statute of repose sets a ten-year limit on the time frame in which individuals can bring forth legal claims for damages relating to professional negligence, unauthorized actions, or omissions in health care practices. The bill defines terms pertinent to its implementation and repeals prior legislation that limited action timelines, thereby aiming to provide a clearer and more consistent legal framework regarding medical malpractice lawsuits in Oklahoma.

Contention

However, the bill might face opposition from consumer advocacy groups and individuals concerned about patient rights. Critics may argue that establishing such a long statute of repose could unjustly prolong the period during which victims of medical negligence are unable to seek redress, potentially leaving patients without necessary legal recourse. This contention reflects broader concerns regarding patient safety and accountability in the medical field, with significant discussions likely to emerge over the balance between protecting medical professionals from frivolous lawsuits and ensuring that patients have access to justice.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

OK SB565

Civil procedure; establishing proper venue for certain actions. Effective date.

OK HB1466

Public health and safety; definitions; health care professionals; gender transition; exceptions; statute of limitations; license revocation; state license holders; certain claims; civil actions; attorney fees; effective date.

OK SB730

Censorship of social media; creating cause of action for deletion or censorship of certain speech, establishing procedures for certain actions. Effective date.

OK SB656

Child support; creating the Paternal Responsibility Act; making certain persons financially liable for certain prenatal care; establishing certain procedures for certain actions. Effective date. Emergency.

OK SB896

Occupation certification; allowing for private certification of professionals. Effective date.

OK SB164

Motor vehicle safety; requiring certain restraint; establishing certain fine and cost. Effective date.

OK SB620

Professional Entity Act; modifying requirements for persons holding interest in domestic professional entity; prohibiting certain persons from holding shares in certain professional corporations. Effective date.

OK SB386

Income tax credit; providing credit for certain purchases of naloxone. Effective date.

OK HB1441

Schools; modifying frequency of various required professional development for teachers; effective date; emergency.

OK HB1405

Online harassment; establishing elements of certain offense; injunctive relief; damages; cumulative remedies; effective date.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.