VTLA says no to med mal-altering legislation for 2009

19 December 2008

The Virginia Trial Lawyers Association (VTLA) reported from their board meeting last weekend that they have no plans to introduce a medical malpractice cap bill or to go forward on cap legislation during the 2009 Virginia General Assembly Session.

VTLA attributes this decision to communication received from legislators that this is not the year to seek legislation to alter the malpractice cap. In addition, they relayed that the education that the physician community provided to legislators during the off-season was part of their reasoning.

MSV would like to thank each physician who has taken the time to participate in this significant grassroots effort. It is a great example of how year-round advocacy can make a difference. However, while this is an exciting victory, we know the debate surrounding this issue will continue.

We understand that Sen. Henry Marsh, D-Richmond, plans to introduce legislation related to the cap. If you are a constituent of Sen. Marsh please contact him and voice your opposition to this matter. We will need to continue to be relentless in our resolve to maintain the cap in its current form.

This issue will certainly be debated for years to come. We must continue to be active advocates so that access to physician care in Virginia is protected.