House has Lengthy Debate on Capping Suits

Cheyenne, Wy – Following a debate that lasted over two hours the Wyoming house gave initial approval to a proposed constitutional amendment that sets a cap on non-economic damages in medical malpractice cases. The debate focused on two main issues. House members defeated an attempt to remove a cap if Gross Negligence is proven. But they did pass an amendment that says no cap can be less then 500-thousand dollars. Putting a number in the bill concerned many, who thought the issue should not be placed in the constitution. But Casper Republican Tom Walsh joined others in supporting the move, so that HJ-1003 would finally have enough votes to go to the public in November because this is the major proposal the legislature is dealing with.
The House also passed a bill that also would put their amendments in statute. The bills move to second reading.