HB 1098

Bill Subjects

Abstract

Provides that, in a civil action where punitive damages are awarded, 25% of the punitive damages awarded will go to the violent crime victims compensation fund and 75% of the punitive damages awarded will be paid to the person to whom the punitive damages were awarded. (Current law mandates that 25% of punitive damages awarded are paid to the person to whom the punitive damages were awarded and 75% of punitive damages go to the violent crime victims compensation fund.) Provides that certain limitations on punitive damages do not apply to civil actions where the defendant has been charged with committing an act of sexual misconduct and the act of sexual misconduct gives rise to the civil action. Raises the cap on punitive damages for such claims to $250,000. Provides that the exception to the punitive damages law does not apply to a cause of action brought against an employer whose liability is based solely on the doctrine of respondeat superior.