Ben Cardin: “Although I shall support the amendment to H.R. 1075, offered by Mr. Cox, which will add a noneconomic cap in medical…”

“Although I shall support the amendment to H.R. 1075, offered by Mr. Cox, which will add a noneconomic cap in medical malpractice awards, I do so with major reservations. The $250,000 cap is too low. My State of Maryland which originally enacted a $350,000 cap on noneconomic damages has increased that cap to $500,000. Such an amount is far more reasonable. I also resent the fact that the amendment is being considered without any opportunity for me to submit an amendment to the Cox amendment, No. 12, to raise the cap or for me to submit a separate amendment regarding this subject. My vote in favor of the Cox amendment should be interpreted only to support the inclusion of a cap. I trust the cap will be adequately adjusted by the Senate or in conference.”