The bill H. 4544 aims to amend several sections of the South Carolina Code of Laws related to medical malpractice and tort claims. Key changes include the introduction of new guidelines for determining when limitations on noneconomic damages do not apply, specifically in cases of gross negligence, felony convictions, or impairment due to alcohol or drugs. The bill also revises the definition of "occurrence" in the Tort Claims Act to clarify that multiple acts of negligence resulting in similar injuries will be treated as a single occurrence. Additionally, it establishes circumstances under which liability limits may be adjusted and makes conforming changes regarding the limited liability of charitable organizations.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that if a jury or court finds that a defendant's conduct falls within the newly defined exceptions, the maximum civil liability will be increased to eight times the current limitations on noneconomic damages. It also includes provisions for the adjustment of compensation limits based on the Consumer Price Index and outlines the requirements for claims against charitable organizations, including the necessity of proving specific types of misconduct by employees. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
05/08/2025: 15-32-220, 15-78-30, 15-78-120, 33-56-180
Latest Version: 15-32-220, 15-78-30, 15-78-120, 33-56-180