2023 -- H 5439

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     STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

IN GENERAL ASSEMBLY

JANUARY SESSION, A.D. 2023

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A N   A C T

RELATING TO COURTS AND CIVIL PROCEDURE--PROCEDURE GENERALLY --

CAUSES OF ACTION

     Introduced By: Representatives Shanley, and Dawson

     Date Introduced: February 08, 2023

     Referred To: House Judiciary

     It is enacted by the General Assembly as follows:

     SECTION 1. Chapter 9-1 of the General Laws entitled "Causes of Action" is hereby

amended by adding thereto the following section:

     9-1-55. Punitive damages in civil actions.

     (a) In any civil action including, but not limited to, causes of action brought under § 10-7-

1, et seq., the plaintiff may receive an award for punitive damages if evidence is submitted showing

the actions of the defendant constitute willful or wanton conduct or that the defendant acted with

reckless disregard for the health safety and welfare of persons who foreseeably might be harmed

by said reckless, willful or wanton conduct.

     (b) For purposes of this section and its application to any civil action, "willful or wanton

conduct" means conduct committed which the actor knew or should have known was dangerous or

was done heedlessly and recklessly and without regard to consequences or the rights and safety of

others.

     SECTION 2. This act shall take effect upon passage.

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LC001000

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EXPLANATION

BY THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL

OF

A N   A C T

RELATING TO COURTS AND CIVIL PROCEDURE--PROCEDURE GENERALLY --

CAUSES OF ACTION

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     This act would provide for punitive damages in civil actions where there is willful or

wanton conduct or a reckless disregard for health, safety and welfare.

     This act would take effect upon passage.

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