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Bill

A 2305

Relates to dental, medical and podiatric malpractice actions and to establishing a limitation on noneconomic damages in personal injury actions

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Karl Brabenec and 4 co-sponsors

Bill A 2305 caps noneconomic damages in malpractice cases for dental, medical, and podiatric fields, impacting patient compensation and provider liability.

REFERRED TO CODES
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Bill Summary · A 2305

Summary of Bill A 2305

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: A 2305
  • Title: Relates to dental, medical and podiatric malpractice actions and to establishing a limitation on noneconomic damages in personal injury actions
  • Status: Referred to Codes
  • Introduced Date: January 16, 2025

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 2305 aims to reform the legal framework surrounding malpractice actions in the fields of dentistry, medicine, and podiatry. The primary intent of the bill is to establish a cap on noneconomic damages awarded in personal injury cases, which could significantly affect the outcomes of malpractice lawsuits.

Key Provisions

  • Limitation on Noneconomic Damages: The bill proposes to set a specific limit on noneconomic damages that can be awarded in personal injury actions related to dental, medical, and podiatric malpractice.
  • Definition of Noneconomic Damages: Noneconomic damages typically refer to compensation for intangible losses such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
  • Scope of Application: The provisions will apply to all malpractice actions within the specified healthcare fields, potentially altering the landscape of how such cases are litigated and settled.

Impact

  • Healthcare Providers: The bill is expected to benefit healthcare providers by reducing the financial liability associated with malpractice claims. By capping noneconomic damages, providers may face lower insurance premiums and reduced litigation costs.
  • Patients: While the bill may provide some predictability for healthcare providers, it could limit the compensation available to patients who suffer from malpractice. Patients may find it more challenging to receive full compensation for their injuries, particularly for non-monetary losses.
  • Legal System: The introduction of a cap on damages may lead to a decrease in the number of malpractice lawsuits filed, as potential plaintiffs may perceive the capped damages as insufficient to warrant legal action.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced on January 16, 2025, and has been referred to the Codes Committee for further consideration. The timeline for further legislative action is currently unspecified, but the referral indicates that the bill will undergo review and potential amendments before any voting occurs.

Related Legislation

Bill A 2305 is related to several prior-session bills, including:
- A 3930
- A 321
- A 1360
- A 846
- A 10109
- A 1742
- A 2140
- A 5725
- A 2061
- S 1608 (companion bill)

These related bills may provide context or additional provisions that could influence the discussions surrounding A 2305.

This summary provides a clear and concise overview of Bill A 2305, outlining its purpose, key provisions, potential impacts, and procedural status to help readers understand its significance in the legislative landscape.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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