House Concurrent Resolution 49

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION REQUESTING THE CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI TO SUPPORT THE PRESIDENT'S 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 health care; and

WHEREAS, rapidly increasing medical malpractice awards are driving up malpractice insurance premiums, reducing access to health care, and fueling the rapid growth in health care 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 health care 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 health care, lower medical premiums, and lower the cost of health care:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, THE SENATE CONCURRING THEREIN, That the Mississippi Legislature requests our elected Representatives and Senators in the United States Congress to support meaningful medical malpractice liability reform.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to the members of Mississippi's Congressional Delegation and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.