MS HB982

Creates the Tort Noneconomic Damages Assessment Task Force to revise statutory noneconomic damage amounts to reflect projected inflation rates and recommend changes to the Legislature.

Task force consists of seven members: Judiciary A and B committee chairpersons from both chambers (or designees), one member from Mississippi Association of Justice, one Defense Bar member (both chosen by Mississippi Bar Association president), and the Attorney General (or designee).

Task force must hold first meeting by June 1, 2023, meet at least monthly with open public meetings, and submit final recommendations by December 1, 2023, after which it dissolves.

Non-legislator and non-state-employee members may receive per diem compensation per Section 25-3-69 and reimbursement for mileage and expenses; legislative members receive contingent expense funds but no per diem while Legislature is in session.

Administrative Office of Courts provides staff support and budget line item for task force operations financed through annual legislative appropriation.