Bill > S1139

This bill proposes to modify Chapter 229 of the General Laws in Massachusetts by amending the statute of limitations for legal actions related to deaths caused by tobacco use. Specifically, the bill adds language clarifying that legal actions seeking damages for a tobacco-related death are not dependent on whether the deceased person previously filed a personal injury claim, and can be initiated independently. This means that family members or estates of individuals who died from tobacco-related causes would have more flexibility in pursuing legal recourse, even if the deceased did not file a claim before their death. The bill is retroactive, applying back to July 6, 2023, which suggests it is intended to address potential barriers to litigation that previously existed in tobacco-related death cases. By allowing these claims to be filed separately from any prior personal injury claims, the legislation appears aimed at expanding legal opportunities for seeking compensation for tobacco-related fatalities.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1139