It started as an effort to rein in the insurance costs facing physicians, but legislation that gained first-round approval in the Missouri House now has a broader scope.
Dubbed "tort reform" by its supporters, the legislation approved Wednesday, Feb. 26, imposes limitations on lawsuits that can be filed against physicians accused of malpractice.
Sponsored by Rep. Richard Byrd, R-Kirkwood, the bill would limit the venue where such trials take place, cap damages that could be awarded and limit fees charged by attorneys.
During a lengthy debate, Republicans outlasted Democratic opponents who offered numerous amendments and complained that the bill would punish victims of medical malpractice. But in a news conference, Republican leaders cast the bill as one that would help create new jobs in Missouri.
