RELATING TO COURTS AND CIVIL PROCEDURE -- PROCEDURE GENERALLY --, CAUSES OF ACTION
Summary
H7750 would add a new section to Rhode Island’s civil causes of action law authorizing punitive damages in civil cases when the plaintiff proves the defendant acted willfully or wantonly, or with reckless disregard for the health, safety, and welfare of people who could foreseeably be harmed. The bill expressly applies to any civil action, including wrongful death claims under the state’s death-by-wrongful-act statute.
The bill also defines “willful or wanton conduct” as conduct the actor knew or should have known was dangerous, or conduct done heedlessly and recklessly without regard to consequences or the rights and safety of others. It would take effect immediately upon passage and would expand the circumstances under which courts may award punitive damages in Rhode Island civil litigation.
Impact
If enacted, the bill would amend chapter 9-1 of the General Laws by creating a new statutory basis for punitive damages in civil actions. It would affect plaintiffs seeking enhanced damages and defendants whose conduct is alleged to be especially egregious, including in wrongful death cases under chapter 7 of title 10. The measure would likely influence civil liability exposure, settlement leverage, and jury instructions in cases involving reckless or intentional misconduct.
Sentiment
No committee transcript or vote record is available, so there is no documented debate or recorded support/opposition in the provided materials. Based on the bill text and caption, the proposal appears aimed at strengthening remedies for serious misconduct and protecting public health and safety, suggesting a generally plaintiff- and victim-oriented policy approach. However, without hearing records, the level of support or concern among legislators cannot be determined from the available information.
Contention
The main point of contention would likely be the expansion of punitive damages exposure in civil cases. Supporters would likely favor the bill as a deterrent against reckless or willful misconduct and as a way to provide stronger remedies for injured parties and wrongful death plaintiffs. Opponents, if any, would likely argue that the standard is broad, could increase litigation costs and insurance exposure, and may encourage larger damage awards in civil suits. No specific objections are documented in the provided record.
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.
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.
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.
Provide to provide greater clarity in insurance claim settlements, the appraisal process and procedural safeguards to enhance consumer protections against bad faith practices by insurers.
Limits rent increases to no more than 4% annually unless the landlord is granted exemption by the secretary of housing. Provides tenants with a civil action to recover damages, including award of attorneys' fees and punitive damages, for any violations.