South Carolina General Assembly
116th Session, 2005-2006

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Bill 3279

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COMMITTEE REPORT

January 19, 2005

H. 3279

Introduced by Reps. Wilkins, W.D. Smith and Tripp

S. Printed 1/19/05--H.

Read the first time January 12, 2005.

            

THE COMMITTEE ON

INVITATIONS AND MEMORIAL RESOLUTIONS

To whom was referred a House Resolution (H. 3279) requesting the Congress of the United States to support and enact meaningful Medical, etc., respectfully

REPORT:

That they have duly and carefully considered the same and recommend that the same do pass:

ROBERT W. LEACH, SR. for Committee.

            

A HOUSE RESOLUTION

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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