Enacts the "sunshine in litigation act" regarding protective orders to prohibit settlement agreements which conceal a public hazard or any information that would identify a public hazard.
Summary
Bill A07473 proposes the enactment of the "Sunshine in Litigation Act," which aims to amend the civil practice law and rules regarding protective orders in New York. The bill specifically prohibits courts from entering orders that conceal public hazards or any information that could help identify such hazards. It establishes a framework for defining public hazards and trade secrets, ensuring that while trade secrets are protected, information relevant to public safety must be disclosed. The bill also declares any agreements or contracts that conceal public hazards as void and contrary to public policy, thus unenforceable by the courts.
Impact
If enacted, this bill would significantly alter the landscape of civil litigation in New York by ensuring that information regarding public hazards is disclosed, thereby enhancing public safety. It would impact various statutes related to protective orders and confidentiality in legal settlements, particularly those involving governmental entities. The bill aims to promote transparency in litigation, especially in cases where public safety is at stake, and could lead to increased accountability for entities that may otherwise seek to conceal hazardous information.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding Bill A07473 appears to be generally supportive, as it addresses public safety concerns and promotes transparency in legal proceedings. However, there may be some apprehension from businesses and entities concerned about the implications of disclosing trade secrets and the potential for increased litigation costs. Overall, discussions indicate a recognition of the importance of public safety, which may lead to a favorable reception among lawmakers and the public.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise from the balance between protecting trade secrets and ensuring public safety. Some stakeholders, particularly businesses, may argue that the bill could undermine their competitive advantage by forcing the disclosure of sensitive information. Conversely, advocates for public safety emphasize the necessity of transparency regarding public hazards, arguing that the potential risks to public health and safety outweigh concerns about trade secret protection. The debate may center on how to effectively implement the bill without compromising legitimate business interests.
Same As
Enacts the "sunshine in litigation act" regarding protective orders to prohibit settlement agreements which conceal a public hazard or any information that would identify a public hazard.
Same As
Enacts the "sunshine in litigation act" regarding protective orders to prohibit settlement agreements which conceal a public hazard or any information that would identify a public hazard.
Enacts the "sunshine in litigation act" regarding protective orders to prohibit settlement agreements which conceal a public hazard or any information that would identify a public hazard.
Enacts the "sunshine in litigation act" regarding protective orders to prohibit settlement agreements which conceal a public hazard or any information that would identify a public hazard.
Provides for a public Settlement Agreement Information Database to contain certain information regarding settlements entered into by state agencies (EG NO IMPACT See Note)
Providing an exception to KORA that authorizes certain retired KPERS members to have identifying information restricted from public access on public websites that identify home addresses or home ownership.
Relates to the disclosure of third-party consumer litigation financing agreements in which there is a right to receive compensation or proceeds from the consumer that is contingent on and sourced from any proceeds of the civil action, by settlement, judgment, or otherwise.
Creates the toxic information clearinghouse; provides substances hazardous to public health, safety or the environment that have been identified or listed as a hazardous waste in regulations promulgated pursuant to section 27-0903 or 37-0103 of the environmental conservation law; provides chemical hazard traits and environmental and toxicological end-point data.
Creates the toxic information clearinghouse; provides substances hazardous to public health, safety or the environment that have been identified or listed as a hazardous waste in regulations promulgated pursuant to section 27-0903 or 37-0103 of the environmental conservation law; provides chemical hazard traits and environmental and toxicological end-point data.