Proposed Bill to Limit Medical Malpractice Damages for Elderly
The United States Congress is currently considering a bill that would place a $250,000 cap on non-economic damages in medical malpractice cases for anyone whose health coverage is subsidized or provided by the government. Called the "Protecting Access to Care Act of 2017," H.R. 1215 would supersede any state law regarding non-economic damages. Because the bill would specifically apply to anyone who receives Medicare, this bill has the potential to dramatically limit the amount that can be recovered in civil lawsuits for alleged elder abuse by elderly residents of nursing homes and their families.Proposed "Prejudgement Interest" Legislation Under Consideration by the Florida State Senate
The Florida legislature is currently considering a bill which would enable plaintiffs who are successful in negligence actions to recoup prejudgment interest on economic and non-economic damages. Under the current law, interest is only charged on damages following the date that a legal decision is entered; the proposed legislation would allow interest to accrue from the date that the tort or injury occurred. If enacted into law, this legislation could significantly increase judgment amounts against defendants in personal injury lawsuits across the state.Immigrants from El Salvador Granted Extended Temporary Protection Status
On July 8, 2016, the Secretary of Homeland Security issued an 18-month extension on the Temporary Protection Status (TPS) of all eligible nationals and those without nationality but who last resided in El Salvador before arriving to the U.S. TPS recipients will need to re-register before Sept. 6, 2016 and will be required to file several forms, regardless of whether or not they wish to extend or obtain their Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Fees are not applicable on the TPS form but are required for extensions of the EAD. Fee waivers are available with appropriate supporting documentation.