MT HB195

Increases the cap on noneconomic damages in medical malpractice cases from $250,000 to $300,000 upon passage, with scheduled increases to $350,000 (2026), $400,000 (2027), $450,000 (2028), and $500,000 (2029)

Starting January 1, 2030, the cap will automatically increase by 2% annually, with the court administrator's office required to publish the adjusted limit within 14 days of each new year

The applicable damage limit for a claim is determined by the date the claimant first files with the Montana Medical Legal Panel or district court

Noneconomic damages include pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of companionship, disfigurement, and humiliation—distinct from economic damages like medical bills or lost wages

Effective immediately upon passage and approval, applying to both future and existing malpractice claims