One thing that both Republicans and Democrats will agree on is that the current economy (local and national) is less than ideal. Unfortunately, many of the currently elected officials are using the current economic client as a poor excuse for some of the pathetically reasoned work they are doing. These efforts are going to have a tremendously negative effect on Charlotte, NC residents who suffer personal injuries.

For instance, the N.C. Tort Reform Committee introduced Senate Bill 33 in early, which proposes to overhaul the current legal scheme for medical malpractice cases in North Carolina. The N.C. Senate approved the bill, and it now resides in the N.C. House for review. Of course, your elected officials have proceeded with this course of action against significant evidence that the general public opposes such measures.

A poll released 02/24/11 (before SB 33 passed) revealed that 70% - 77% of the public opposed immunity for emergency room negligence.

Query why your elected representatives are pushing legislation that you are opposed to? Perhaps they are simply pleasing large corporations and insurance companies that have lined their pockets with contributions. Regardless of their irresponsible reasoning, you should immediately contact your representative and notify him/her of your objections to the tort reform legislation (bills) unless you want to see your rights evaporate.

You can review detailed, yet concise information regarding Senate Bill 33 that will allow you to easily determine your stance on this issue. Please note there are further reform bills in the legislative process, which are just as damaging to your legal rights. I encourage you to educate yourself regarding these matters and voice your concerns.

As noted herein, many individuals have expressed concern over this legislation. The Fayetteville Observer noted that they were warned by a Supreme Court Justice that the provision was unconstitutional. Other obvious concerns regarding the bill are inherently noted in the bill.

However, the newspaper picked up on another obvious point the proponents of the bill want to ignore. They claim this bill will reduce healthcare costs. However, anyone with any knowledge of the insurance industry will tell you that while medical malpractice will continue to occur, the insurance companies will not reduce their premiums. It is also rather doubtful that medical providers are going to cut their prices; it's all a public relations gimmick - with one obvious consequence: most of the injuries resulting from these cases (and resulting treatment) are going to be pushed on to Medicare / Medicaid, two systems that are already bankrupt.

The Shield - Liability Reform Is Legislative Malpractice, FayObserver.com, 03/13/11, FayObserver.com, 03/13/11