Will Tort Reform be Revisited in MO Legislature?

(Jefferson City, Mo)—The issue of Tort Reform in Missouri received a blow last August when the Missouri Supreme Court struck down a law signed in 2005 by then Republican Governor Matt Blunt, capping the pain and suffering part of medical malpractice lawsuits at $350,000.

Lindell Shumake, 5^th District State Representative from Hannibal says the issue is likely to surface again when lawmakers convene January 9^th for the 2013 legislative session.

Shumake Tort Reform Comments:

Opponents of Malpractice Caps say the circumstances of the individual case should dictate the award and caps infringe on due process. Supporters of caps say excessive damage awards raise healthcare costs and make recruiting and retaining medical professionals more difficult. With a Republican majority in both the Missouri House and Senate, Tort Reform legislation will most certainly be revisited in 2013.