The bill amends various sections of the Revised Code to increase the caps on noneconomic and punitive damages in civil actions. It raises the maximum recoverable amounts for noneconomic loss from $250,000 to $415,000 and for total damages from $350,000 to $580,000 for each plaintiff, with an overall cap of $830,000 per occurrence. Additionally, the bill introduces a mechanism for the Department of Taxation to adjust these caps annually based on the consumer price index, ensuring that the limits remain aligned with inflation. It also clarifies the conditions under which punitive damages can be awarded, particularly in product liability claims, emphasizing the need for clear and convincing evidence of misconduct and establishing that compliance with federal safety standards can protect manufacturers from punitive damages unless fraud is proven.

Moreover, the bill outlines specific provisions regarding compensatory damages in civil actions related to medical, dental, optometric, or chiropractic claims, removing the previous cap on noneconomic damages for severe injuries and setting new limits. It mandates annual adjustments to these figures based on the consumer price index and clarifies the process for determining damages, requiring courts to specify the breakdown between economic and noneconomic losses. The bill also prohibits punitive damages against political subdivisions and establishes a framework for adjusting damage amounts while streamlining the legal framework by repealing certain existing sections of the Revised Code. Overall, the bill aims to create a more equitable and structured approach to tort claims, ensuring fair compensation for victims while providing protections for defendants.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 2305.01, 2307.80, 2315.18, 2315.21, 2323.43, 2744.05, 3345.40