Friday 29th March 2024

Iowa legislators are looking into a bill that would cap noneconomic damages in medical malpractice lawsuits. The legislation would put a $1 million cap on noneconomic damages, which according to the Senate bill and House bill is defined as “damages arising from pain, suffering, inconvenience, physical impairment, mental anguish, emotional pain and suffering.”  There is a concern about the ability to recruit more physicians as they pay more in malpractice premiums. However those who oppose the bill, question how you can put a price on someone’s life.  Especially as each case brings different circumstances.  Missouri, Nebraska, and the Dakotas all have a some cap on noneconomic damages when it comes to medical malpractices.  The Iowa house can bring this up for debate at any time.

Zach Tomesch, News Director KFJB