By ROBERT W. BLACK, Associated Press Writer
CHEYENNE, Wyo. - Wyoming residents will vote on a proposed constitutional amendment to allow limits on certain damage awards in doctors' malpractice cases under a resolution signed Saturday by Gov. Dave Freudenthal.
The amendment, if approved by voters Nov. 2, would allow the Legislature to place a cap on non-economic losses such as for pain and suffering as a way to reduce the cost of doctors' insurance.
The resolution is seen by supporters as a way to stem rising malpractice rates and retain more doctors in Wyoming.
Opponents say not enough information is available to conclude that damage caps slow insurance rates, and others decried the potential loss of a victim's ability to recover full damages.
Trial lawyers are mounting what is expected to be an expensive media campaign against the resolution while doctors' groups are gearing up to support of the amendment.
"I believe that the people of this state will make a decision in November that will help to chart the health care agenda for the state of Wyoming," Senate President April Brimmer Kunz said at the signing of the resolution.
The House approved the measure Friday by a 54-6 vote and the Senate voted 22-7 in favor. Freudenthal signed the legislation on the sixth and final day of a special legislative session.
Bookmarks