2025 -- H 5908
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LC002290
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S T A T E O F R H O D E I S L A N D
IN GENERAL ASSEMBLY
JANUARY SESSION, A.D. 2025
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A N A C T
RELATING TO COURTS AND CIVIL PROCEDURE -- PROCEDURE GENERALLY --
CAUSES OF ACTION
Introduced By: Representatives Shanley, Potter, and Dawson
Date Introduced: February 28, 2025
Referred To: House Judiciary
It is enacted by the General Assembly as follows:
SECTION 1. Chapter 9-1 of the General Laws entitled "Causes of Action" is hereby 1
amended by adding thereto the following section: 2
9-1-55. Punitive damages in civil actions. 3
(a) In any civil action including, but not limited to, causes of action brought under ยง 10-7-4
1, et seq., the plaintiff may receive an award for punitive damages if evidence is submitted showing 5
the actions of the defendant constitute willful or wanton conduct or that the defendant acted with 6
reckless disregard for the health safety and welfare of persons who foreseeably might be harmed 7
by said reckless, willful or wanton conduct. 8
(b) For purposes of this section and its application to any civil action, "willful or wanton 9
conduct" means conduct committed which the actor knew or should have known was dangerous or 10
was done heedlessly and recklessly and without regard to consequences or the rights and safety of 11
others. 12
SECTION 2. This act shall take effect upon passage. 13
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LC002290
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LC002290 - Page 2 of 2
EXPLANATION
BY THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL
OF
A N A C T
RELATING TO COURTS AND CIVIL PROCEDURE -- PROCEDURE GENERALL Y --
CAUSES OF ACTION
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This act would provide for punitive damages in civil actions where there is willful or 1
wanton conduct or a reckless disregard for health, safety and welfare. 2
This act would take effect upon passage. 3
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LC002290
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