State Senate approves amendment asking voters to limit damages awarded in lawsuits

LITTLE ROCK—A plan to ask Arkansas voters to limit damages awarded in lawsuits and give the Legislature control over court rules was approved by the state Senate on Thursday, despite criticism from opponents who call the move an attempt by lawmakers to take over the judicial system.

The majority-Republican Senate voted 21-10 to refer the proposed constitutional amendment to voters next year. The measure is expected to easily clear the House, where more than half of the members in the majority-Republican chamber are co-sponsoring it.

The proposal would place limits on punitive and non-economic damages awarded in civil lawsuits, and restrict the contingency fees lawyers could collect in those cases. It would also require legislative approval for any rules of pleading, practice or procedure for state courts.

The ballot measure has the backing of business groups such as the state Chamber of Commerce, who say it'll create a better legal environment for companies and prevent frivolous lawsuits.

Read more: http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/arkansas/story/2017/feb/17/state-senate-approves-amendment-asking-voters-limit-damages-awarded-lawsuits/661954/