This bill amends Sections 6-5-691, 6-5-692, and 6-5-693 of the Code of Alabama 1975, to introduce new requirements for asbestos actions, which are civil actions related to the health effects of exposure to asbestos. The bill specifies that the term "asbestos action" does not include claims alleging ovarian cancer. It introduces a new term, "exposed person," which refers to a person whose exposure to asbestos is the basis for an asbestos action. The bill also modifies the requirements for plaintiffs in asbestos actions to provide detailed information about their claims, including the basis for each claim against each defendant, specific details about the exposure, and the identity of individuals knowledgeable about the exposure. The timeframe for plaintiffs to provide this information is reduced from 90 days to 45 days after filing an asbestos action.
Additionally, the bill allows for a defendant to be dismissed from an asbestos action if the plaintiff fails to meet the specified requirements or to supplement their attestation as ordered by the court. The bill also outlines the plaintiff's obligations to file all available asbestos trust claims and to continuously update the parties with any new information or materials related to these claims. The bill sets a timeline for these actions and provides conditions under which the trial may begin, ensuring that all trust claims are filed and information is provided at least 60 days before the trial. The act is set to become effective on October 1, 2024.
Statutes affected: Introduced: 6-5-691, 6-5-692, 6-5-693, 6-5-694