The following is a news release from the Office of Speaker Therese Terlaje:
The Committee on Health announces a series of hearings and invites public input on Bill 112-36. The measure is intended for those harmed by medical negligence who cannot afford mandatory arbitration while ensuring confidential screening and protection of doctors against frivolous claims. The bill would enact a case screening system in place of costly Mandatory Arbitration. Costs of arbitration on top of cost of potential trial have deterred the filing of claims by those who cannot afford the upfront costs.
Bill 112-36 (COR):
- Replaces the costly three (3) person arbitration panel
- Allows a local magistrate to confidentially consider claims, consider expert testimony and identify frivolous claims
- Allows for alternative confidential arbitration or mediation with consent of both parties
- Applies only to those healing arts professions covered under the current MMMA Act
- Applies the current standard of care
- Continues application of the Government Claims Act for Government providers
Informational Hearing on Wednesday, June 23rd at 5:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.:
The Informational Hearing on June 23rd will feature an introduction of the bill and comparison with current mandatory arbitration law, provided by the bill’s sponsors, members of the Guam Bar Association, and malpractice insurance representatives.
Public Hearings on Wednesday, July 7th and Monday, July 12th at 5:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.:
Medical professionals and the public are invited to submit testimony on the bill on July 7th or July 12th at the Guam Congress Building or via Zoom. Those interested in presenting written or verbal testimony should contact the Office of Speaker Therese Terlaje at (671) 472-3586 or senatorterlajeguam@gmail.com by July 6, 2021.
