Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB861

Introduced

7/27/23

Refer

7/27/23

Caption

Further providing for damages.

Impact

If enacted, SB861 could significantly alter the state’s current laws related to damages, impacting how cases involving personal injury, property damage, and other liability claims are handled in court. By providing clearer definitions and standards for damages, the bill is expected to streamline the legal processes involved, potentially leading to more consistent court rulings and reducing the burden on the judicial system. Additionally, it may influence the practices of insurance companies in evaluating claims and determining payouts, as they will need to align their policies with the new guidelines outlined in the legislation.

Summary

Senate Bill 861 (SB861) is a legislative measure that aims to further define and clarify the provisions concerning damages within the state. This bill seeks to address existing gaps in the legal framework regarding liability and compensation for damages, thereby ensuring that victims of various circumstances have a more robust avenue for seeking redress and financial compensation. It intends to provide clearer guidelines and parameters for what constitutes damages and under what circumstances they are applicable in legal claims.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB861 appears mixed, with some parties expressing strong support for the bill as a necessary reform to protect the rights of individuals seeking damages. Advocates argue that clearer definitions and guidance will empower victims and promote fairness in legal proceedings. Conversely, there are concerns and criticisms from some sectors who believe that the bill may inadvertently limit the scope of damages or impose stringent requirements that could hinder legitimate claims. This division in sentiment highlights the complexities inherent in legal reforms regarding liability and compensation.

Contention

Notable points of contention concerning SB861 include debates over how to properly define 'damages' and what should be considered reasonable under various circumstances. Some experts and stakeholders worry that the bill may restrict certain claims or alter the balance between individual rights and systemic liability protections. These concerns underscore a broader debate about the balance of justice and fairness in the legal system, particularly regarding who bears the financial responsibility in cases of harm or loss.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB1250

Providing for resident associations and group meetings; further providing for disclosure of fees; providing for reasonable increases in rent and fees and for justified rent increase to support extraordinary increases in operating expenses; and further providing for damages.

PA SB745

Providing for resident associations and group meetings; further providing for disclosure of fees; providing for reasonable increases in rent and fees, for justified rent increase to support extraordinary increases in operating expenses and for temporary surcharge for capital improvements; and further providing for damages.

PA HB1808

Further providing for closure of manufactured home communities.

PA HB843

Further providing for closure of manufactured home communities.

PA SB746

Providing for residents' right to purchase manufactured home community; and further providing for remedies.

PA HB765

Providing for tenant's rights.

PA HB805

Providing for rent increases.

PA HB944

Further providing for definitions; providing for duty of department to report; further providing for civil remedies and penalties, for liquidated damages and for criminal penalties; providing for employer liability; and establishing the Wage Enforcement Fund.

PA SB341

PA HB1464

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; in procedure to condemn, providing for advanced notice to condemnee, further providing for notice to condemnee and for preliminary objections and providing for determination of last resort; in procedure for determining damages, further providing for liens and distribution of damages; in just compensation and measure of damages, further providing for measure of damages and providing for compensation for loss of goodwill of business or farm operation; and, in evidence, providing for proof of continuous ownership.

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