5728-S.E AMS KOHL S4325.1

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By Senator Kohl-Welles

On page ..., after line ..., insert the following:

"NEW SECTION. Sec. 414. A new section is added to chapter 4.56 RCW to read as follows:

In an action for damages for injury or death occurring as a result of health care, or arranging for the provision of health care, whether brought under chapter 7.70 RCW, if gross negligence exists, the court may award exemplary damages in an amount not exceeding twice the award or verdict for economic and noneconomic damages."

EFFECT: Permits exemplary damages to be awarded in medical malpractice cases if gross negligence is found.

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