Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HB8440

Introduced
5/16/24  

Caption

Auto Bailout Accident Victims Recovery Act of 2024

Impact

Should this bill be enacted, it would significantly affect the landscape of claims against the federal government regarding the GM bailout. Specifically, it would allow eligible plaintiffs, defined within the text, to seek compensation without the limitation of the usual time constraints that dictate when a lawsuit must be filed. This includes provisions for just compensation to eligible claimants, reinforcing the government’s obligation to provide redress for harm resulting from its actions during the bailout.

Summary

House Bill 8440, known as the Auto Bailout Accident Victims Recovery Act of 2024, proposes to waive the statute of limitations for civil actions against the government concerning the General Motors bailout. Specifically, the bill targets lawsuits filed on or before July 9, 2015, where claimants allege violations of the Takings Clause of the Fifth Amendment. The legislation is intended to provide justice and compensation for accident victims who have suffered due to defects in vehicles manufactured or sold by General Motors prior to June 1, 2009, and have claims related to the bailout process in 2009.

Contention

The proposed legislation has raised some controversy, particularly regarding its implications for the government’s liability and the handling of federal funds. Supporters argue that it is a necessary measure to rectify past wrongs and provide relief to victims who may otherwise be barred from seeking justice due to the expiration of statutes of limitations. Conversely, opponents may raise concerns about the precedent it sets for government accountability and the potential financial burden it could place on taxpayers. Additionally, there may be debates about the fairness of opening these claims many years after the fact, examining whether this aligns with principles of judicial economy and closure for all parties involved.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US HB8363

Chugach Alaska Land Exchange Oil Spill Recovery Act of 2024

US HB9666

Artsakh Revenue Recovery Act of 2024

US HB9348

Justice for Victims of Foreign Vessel Accidents Act

US SB4443

Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025

US SB4310

Chugach Alaska Land Exchange Oil Spill Recovery Act of 2024

US HB7806

Justice for the Living Victims of Lockerbie Act

US SB4089

Fraud Prevention and Recovery Act

US HB8502

Children’s Safe Welcome Act of 2024

US HB3903

Chugach Alaska Land Exchange Oil Spill Recovery Act of 2025

US HB9214

Campus Prevention and Recovery Services for Students Act of 2024

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.