The newly signed law promises to do the following:

• Create reasonable limits on non-economic damage awards ($500,000 for the medical community and $1,000,000 for all other industries),
• Create sensible limits on punitive damage awards for medium and small businesses,
• Reform Mississippi’s venue statutes,
• Protect innocent retailers from frivolous litigation, and
• Eliminate joint liability.

“MFEP is extremely appreciative of Governor Barbour and countless others who were instrumental in pushing HB 13 through the Capitol," says Lex Taylor, MFEP Chairman of the Board. “This new civil justice package will fight frivolous lawsuits and bring more fairness to our state’s court system.  In addition to Lt. Governor Amy Tuck, President Pro-Tempore Travis Little, and Chairman Charlie Ross, we also recognize the courage and commitment that the Senate and 60 plus members of the House showed in supporting civil justice reform.  Without the Senate’s commitment and strong support from the House floor, HB 13 would not have been signed into law today."

Legislative passage of HB 13 depended heavily upon a strong nucleus of support from the rank-and-file House membership. Comprehensive civil justice reform legislation benefited from sponsorship of nearly one-half of the House since late February.