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REQUESTING THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES TO SUPPORT AND ENACT MEANINGFUL MEDICAL MALPRACTICE REFORM.
Whereas, a fair and efficient legal system free from frivolous and abusive litigation is necessary for a vibrant economy and access to affordable healthcare; and
Whereas, rapidly increasing medical malpractice awards are driving up malpractice insurance premiums, reducing access to healthcare, and fueling the rapid growth in healthcare costs; and
Whereas, frivolous medical lawsuits lead to hospitals closing their doors, doctors refusing to see new patients, and in some cases, forcing doctors to leave for other states; and
Whereas, reasonable caps on damages protect patients from the rising costs of and diminishing access to healthcare that results from lawsuit abuse; and
Whereas, victims who suffer losses, not their attorneys, should receive the majority of damage awards; and
Whereas, lawsuits filed in a timely fashion promote fairness for all parties; and
Whereas, medical malpractice reforms enacting caps on damages, allowing for the inclusion of collateral source payments in jury considerations, and imposing time limits on filing of lawsuits will enhance access to healthcare, lower medical premiums, and lower the cost of healthcare. Now, therefore,
Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:
That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, request the Congress of the United States to support and enact meaningful medical malpractice reform.
Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the United States Senate, the United States House of Representatives, and to each member of the South Carolina Congressional Delegation.
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