State Tries to Cap Some|Medical Damages

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (CN) - A Missouri House committee on Wednesday endorsed a $350,000 cap on some medical malpractice awards.

The bill would limit non-economic damages in medical malpractice lawsuits to $350,000.

It would not apply to economic damages, including lost wages or medical bills.

Supporters say the bill would keep medical malpractice insurance premiums from increasing, which could drive doctors out of the state.

Opponents say the bill would shield bad doctors from taking responsibility for their actions.

Missouri had medical malpractice caps from 2005 to 2012, when the U.S. Supreme Court found such caps unconstitutional.

Medical malpractice caps have been passed in the House since the 2012 ruling, but have stalled in the state Senate thanks to a filibuster by Senate Democrats and failed negotiations for a higher cap.

The bill now goes to the House Rules Committee.

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