New Damages Caps Proposed For Suits Against Oregon State Agencies

The Oregon Health & Science University and the Oregon Trial Lawyers Association have agreed on new damages caps in torts suits against government agencies.    According to a press release, "[t]he 'per claim' limit would be set at $1.5 million effective July 1, 2009. The limit would increase by $100,000 per year for the next 5 years to $2 million."   None of these numbers, however, are final.  The proposal now proceeds to the Oregon Tort Claims Act Interim Task Force, the Governor, and the Oregon Legislature.    An Op-Ed in the Oregonian critiques the proposal.

- SBS