HB 548 Summary

• Amends section 327E-9 to allow individuals acting as agents, guardians, or surrogates to recover statutory damages upon prevailing in civil actions regarding health-care decisions made in good faith.

• Adds new section 327E-10(c) providing that persons bringing civil actions against agents, guardians, or surrogates are liable for actual damages or $25,000 (whichever is less) plus attorney's fees and costs if the agent, guardian, or surrogate prevails.

• Specifies that damages awarded under section 327E-10(c) are in addition to any other damages permitted by law.

• Takes effect upon approval and does not affect rights, duties, or proceedings that existed before the Act's effective date.