SANTA FE, NM — Representative Jenifer Jones has filed legislation to reform New Mexico's Medical Malpractice Act aimed at stabilizing the health care system, and ensuring doctors and hospitals can continue serving communities across the state.
"With doctors leaving the state and families struggling to access care, inaction is not an option," Jones said. "This bill is about keeping providers here, keeping hospitals open, and making sure patients get the care they need when they need it."
Key provisions of the legislation include:
Reasonable limits on non-economic damages: The bill restores predictability by setting clear limits on non-medical damages while preserving patient rights.
Stronger standards for punitive damages: Punitive damages are limited to cases involving proven malicious or reckless conduct.
Fair limits on attorney contingency fees: Ensures a greater share of awarded compensation goes directly to injured patients.
Responsible use of the Patient's Compensation Fund: Payments for long-term medical care are made as expenses are incurred, strengthening sustainability and oversight.
"New Mexico is the only state in recent years to lose doctors; New Mexicans can simply not afford further legislative inaction on this very real crisis."
-Representative Jenifer Jones
