Bill > SB584

This bill proposes to repeal the existing Maryland law that places caps on noneconomic damages in personal injury and wrongful death civil lawsuits. Currently, the law limits noneconomic damages (which include pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of companionship, and other non-monetary harm) to a maximum of $500,000, with annual increases and special provisions for cases with multiple claimants. By removing these limitations entirely, the bill would allow juries to award more comprehensive compensation for non-economic losses in personal injury and wrongful death cases. The bill is designed to apply only to causes of action arising on or after October 1, 2025, meaning it will not retroactively affect existing legal claims. This change could potentially increase the financial compensation available to plaintiffs in civil lawsuits by removing the statutory restrictions on noneconomic damage awards, giving juries more discretion in determining appropriate compensation for intangible harm.

Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0584?ys=2025RS