Bill > SB801

This bill establishes the Oklahoma Medicine Injury Justice Act, a comprehensive legislative effort to hold pharmaceutical companies accountable for harm caused by their products. The act defines two key legal terms: "fraud" as a deliberate deception, and "gross negligence" as a reckless disregard for care that poses substantial risk to others. It allows Oklahoma citizens to sue pharmaceutical companies in state courts for compensatory damages (like medical expenses and lost wages), non-economic damages (such as pain and suffering), and punitive damages in cases of gross negligence or fraud. Moreover, the bill explicitly invalidates federal immunity statutes that might otherwise protect pharmaceutical companies, such as the PREP Act and the National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act, asserting Oklahoma's sovereign right under the Tenth Amendment to protect its citizens. The legislation also enables criminal prosecution of pharmaceutical companies for serious misconduct and guarantees citizens' constitutional right to due process and access to justice in Oklahoma state courts. By emphasizing state sovereignty and citizens' rights, the bill aims to create a legal framework that prioritizes individual health and safety over corporate protections. The act is set to become effective on July 1, 2025, with an emergency clause suggesting its immediate importance to public health and safety.

Justice

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=sb801&Session=2600