RELATING TO COURTS AND CIVIL PROCEDURE -- PROCEDURE IN PARTICULAR, ACTIONS -- DEATH BY WRONGFUL ACT
Impact
If passed, H7207 would significantly alter the legal landscape surrounding wrongful death lawsuits in Rhode Island, particularly focusing on the rights of parents and families who have suffered the demise of a newborn or unborn child due to wrongful acts. The increase in the statute of limitations may provide grieving families the necessary time to process their loss and to navigate the complexities of the legal system, potentially leading to more claims being filed. This legislative change reflects a growing recognition of the emotional and psychological burdens placed on families facing such tragedies.
Summary
House Bill 7207 aims to amend the existing legal framework regarding wrongful death claims specifically pertaining to the death of a child in utero or within six months after birth. Under the current law, the statute of limitations for such claims is limited to three years after the death, which some advocates argue is insufficient in cases involving a tragic loss of a child. This bill proposes to expand that limitation period to ten years, giving families a longer timeframe to seek justice and compensation for their loss.
Contention
However, there are points of contention surrounding this bill. Opponents may argue that extending the statute of limitations could lead to increased legal claims and potential abuse of the system. Concerns have been raised about the burden this may place on defendants, who could be subject to lawsuits many years after the events in question have occurred. Additionally, lawmakers will need to consider the implications for court resources and the overall impact on the wrongful death litigation landscape in Rhode Island.
Expands the statute of limitations with respect to any wrongful act resulting in the death of a child in utero or within six (6) months after the birth of the child, to ten (10) years after the death of the child.
Required public auctions by any city or town of real estate or an interest therein to only be done in person and not by electronic or remote procedures unless authorized by court order.
Prohibits gender transition procedures for all minors, uses of public funds, discipline for health care providers, a 30 year statute of limitation, after reaching age of majority, and right to a civil action for damages.
Establishes regulations to ensure the ethical development, integration, and deployment of high-risk AI systems, particularly those influencing consequential decisions.
Mandates paid leave by allowing qualified employees to take medical leave to undergo donation procedures, medical tests, and recovery related to being a living organ donor, or bone marrow transplant donor.
Provides equal Medicare for infants born-alive as a result of abortion procedure/natural delivery with violations subject to criminal penalties for medical personnel/loss of license/civil action for damages.