House Bill No. 4036 amends the Civil Practice and Remedies Code to adjust liability limits in health care liability claims based on changes in the consumer price index (CPI). Specifically, it introduces new subsections (d) and (f) to Sections 74.301 and 74.302, respectively. These subsections stipulate that when there is an increase or decrease in the CPI relative to its value on September 1, 2003, the liability limits and financial responsibility amounts will be adjusted accordingly. The adjustments will be calculated by multiplying the existing limits by the percentage change in the CPI, as published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The provisions of this bill will only apply to health care liability claims that accrue on or after the effective date of the Act. The Act is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses of the Texas Legislature; otherwise, it will take effect on September 1, 2025. This legislative change aims to ensure that liability limits remain relevant and reflective of economic conditions over time.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Civil Practice and Remedies Code 74.301, Civil Practice and Remedies Code 74.302 (Civil Practice and Remedies Code 74)