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 can be adjusted and makes conforming changes to the limited liability of charitable organizations.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that if a defendant's conduct falls within the newly defined exceptions, the maximum civil liability can be increased to eight times the current limitations on noneconomic damages. It also emphasizes that any damages awarded under this chapter will not include punitive damages or interest prior to judgment. The bill is set to 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