NU Online News Service, May 5, 4:50 p.m. EDT--Florida Gov. Jeb Bush is soon expected to sign asbestos litigation reform legislation establishing medical criteria for plaintiffs.
Florida's reform, passed by the state legislature today, would require those suffering from asbestos or silica related illnesses to meet a minimum level of objective criteria before filing an action. The legislation, HB 1019, would also require those who do file asbestos claims in Florida courts to be Florida residents, or to be able to document that the exposure occurred in Florida. In addition, the statute of limitations, which required claimants to file suit within four years of learning they showed physical signs of exposure, has been suspended.
Last year, Ohio passed the first asbestos medical criteria measure, while similar legislation was enacted earlier this year in Georgia.
Cecil Pearce, the American Insurance Association's vice president, said the legislation will help the truly sick. "Businesses have been forced into bankruptcy due to this abusive claims process, with little or nothing left for the truly sick," he said.
Mr. Pearce said he expects the GOP governor to sign the bill. It would go into effect July 1.
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