Oklahoma Passes Tort Reforms

Oklahoma Republican lawmakers pushed through lawsuit reform Wednesday, a key victory in the GOPs long-standing effort curtail the cost of lawsuits that hurt businesses, the Tulsa World reported Thursday.

The Oklahoma House passed a bill to cap pain-and-suffering damages at $350,000, except in cases of gross negligence, malicious intent, fraud and recklessness.

Floor leader Dan Sullivan, a Tulsa Republican, said the measure is fair to all concerned and will benefit the state by encouraging economic growth and the retention of medical professionals.

"You can talk about emotional appeals, jump up and down, wave your arms - it doesn't change the facts," he said. "When other states have passed lawsuit reform, they have seen a positive effect."

The House also approved an economic incentive fund, but didn’t put any money into it. The fund could be used by the governor to lure businesses to the state when it’s implemented.

Both measures are high priorities for Gov. Mary Fallin.