IL SB2160

Reenacts provisions of Public Act 94-677 that were declared unconstitutional by the Illinois Supreme Court in Lebron v. Gottlieb Memorial Hospital, excluding the struck-down noneconomic damages caps in medical malpractice cases.

Amends Section 2-1303 to lower judgment interest rates from 9% to the rate on 10-year U.S. Treasury Notes (with 1% minimum for government entities) and delays interest accrual when federal Medicare liens may exist against judgments.

Adds Section 2-1704.6 to establish a process for guaranteed payment of future medical expenses and costs of life care through annuity purchases in medical malpractice cases, with defendant paying 20% in cash and purchasing an annuity for remaining 80%.

Modifies Section 2-622 to shorten the required expert consultation period from 6 years to 5 years for health care professionals and requires written reports instead of certificates, with protections against discrimination based on report preparation.

Validates all lawful actions taken in reasonable reliance on Public Act 94-677 provisions and applies changes to causes of action accruing on or after August 25, 2005; effective immediately upon enactment.