H-1508

   Amend House File 592 as follows:
   1.  By striking everything after the enacting clause and inserting: 
   <Section 1.  Section 147.136A, Code 2021, is amended by adding the following new subsection:
   NEW SUBSECTION.  4.  In an action for damages in which this section applies, if a verdict in favor of a plaintiff is rendered by a jury and if the damages include noneconomic damages exceeding one million dollars, then the trial judge, within thirty days of the date of the jury’s verdict, shall independently review the jury’s verdict to verify that the verdict and the damages are supported by the facts of the case and established state law. If the trial judge believes that the verdict reflects excessive or inadequate damages influenced by the passions or prejudices of the jury and is not based on substantial evidence, then the trial judge shall issue findings of facts and conclusions of law setting forth such belief and shall enter an order remitting any amounts not supported by substantial evidence. If the trial court enters a remittitur by reducing all or part of the jury’s verdict, the court shall give the plaintiff an option to either accept the remitted amount or to accept a new trial on the issue of damages.>

______________________________
LOHSE of Polk