According to an article in the Central Penn Business Journal (CentralPennBusiness.com), the Pennsylvania House of Representatives passed legislation last week that would put a limit on the amount of punitive damages that could be awarded in civil liability cases against nursing homes.
If House Bill 1907 passes the Pennsylvania Senate, there would be a limit of 200 percent of compensatory damages for cases that include personal care homes, long-term care facilities, and assisted living communities.
However, the bill states that this limit would not apply to cases where there are allegations of intentional misconduct.
There is still time to oppose this measure. If you feel that there should not be limits on punitive damages in civil liability cases against nursing homes, we suggest you contact your local legislators and ask them to oppose it. This will ensure that those who are injured through the negligence of a skilled nursing facility get the compensation they deserve.
We will wait to see if this bill pass the PA Senate.