Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HR145

Introduced
6/9/23  

Caption

Directing the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to conduct a study as to the feasibility of establishing a no-fault catastrophic loss fund to provide payment for claims brought as the result of birth-related neurological injuries.

Impact

If implemented, the catastrophic loss fund would significantly impact state laws concerning medical malpractice and liability. It would provide a structured mechanism for compensating families affected by neurological injuries at birth, rather than navigating through traditional liability lawsuits. This could enhance accessibility to compensation for affected families while also potentially reducing the financial burden on state-sponsored healthcare by creating a centralized resource for claims. Additionally, it raises questions about the existing legal frameworks surrounding medical malpractice and the responsibilities of healthcare providers.

Summary

House Resolution 145 (HR145) directs the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to study the feasibility of establishing a no-fault catastrophic loss fund. This fund aims to provide emergency payments for claims related to birth-related neurological injuries. The initiative reflects an evolving perspective on how to manage medical liabilities, particularly for conditions that arise at birth leading to severe long-term consequences. The study intended by HR145 embodies a proactive step towards potentially altering the landscape of medical insurance for newborns facing serious health challenges.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding HR145 appears to be cautiously optimistic among advocacy groups and healthcare professionals who seek improved outcomes for families dealing with neurological injuries related to childbirth. Supporters argue that a no-fault system could streamline the claims process, enabling quicker access to necessary resources without the adversarial nature of traditional lawsuits. However, there may also be concerns about the financial implications for state budgets and the potential outcomes of establishing such a fund, leading to mixed feelings about its long-term consequences.

Contention

Notable points of contention revolve around the feasibility and financial sustainability of the proposed catastrophic loss fund. Some legislators may question the implications for healthcare funding and whether the establishment of such a fund might inadvertently encourage medical negligence. There may also be concerns regarding how it could shift liability from healthcare providers to a state-run system, which may instigate debates about accountability in medical practice and implications for insurance rates.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SR27

Directing the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to conduct a study as to the feasibility of establishing a no-fault catastrophic loss fund to provide payment for claims brought as the result of birth-related neurological injuries in Pennsylvania.

PA SR149

Directing the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to conduct a study as to the feasibility of establishing a no-fault catastrophic loss fund to provide payment for claims brought as the result of birth-related neurological injuries in Pennsylvania.

PA HR66

Directing the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to conduct a study and issue a report on the impact of housing on health in this Commonwealth.

PA SR24

Directing the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to conduct a study and issue a report on the impact of housing on health in this Commonwealth.

PA HR416

Directing the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to conduct a study and issue a report on the court system's financial stability and its dependence on fines and fees.

PA HR87

Directing the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to conduct a study and issue a report on the current status, management and benefits of conservation corridors in this Commonwealth.

PA HR77

Directing the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to conduct a study and issue a report reviewing the possibility of transitioning the General Assembly to part-time status.

PA HR318

Directing the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to conduct a study, issue a report and make recommendations on the current status, management, structure, policies and finances of the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association.

PA SR178

Directing the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to conduct a study evaluating the outcomes of Act 44 of 2018 and to issue a report of its findings and recommendations.

PA HR481

Directing the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to conduct a study and make recommendations on non-academic barriers students face getting accepted into career and technical education programs and identifying the barriers.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.