Dear Friends and Members,

I encourage you all to take special notice of members of NYSTLA's strategic business partners program. These businesses share our commitment to protecting the civil justice system. By using these companies, you support NYSTLA. When you use their products or services, please let us know.

"TORT REFORM" PACKAGE INTRODUCED IN SENATE: Last Tuesday, legislation that would cap non-economic damages at $250,000, move cases against municipalities to the Court of Claims, establish statutes of limitations in product liability cases and place numerous other restrictions on the civil justice system was introduced in the State Senate. The two bills, S.2944 and S.5395, were introduced as part of the Senate Republican Majority's mandate relief plan for local governments.

DANGEROUS OB-GYN BILL WOULD DENY JUSTICE TO INJURED BABIES: While presented as "reasonable" by the bill's proponents, legislation introduced in the state Legislature would grant obstetricians and gynecologists unprecedented immunity when their negligence causes injury or death. This extreme measure discriminates against women and children, rewards negligent obstetricians and gynecologists, shifts liability to taxpayers and drastically skews the playing field against victims. Click here to tell your legislators to oppose this bill.

TRIAL LAWYERS CARE UPDATE: Thank you to those attorneys who have generously donated their time and expertise to the victims of the September 11 tragedy. There are now only eight claimants requiring representation before the Victim Compensation Fund. If you can help, please contact Trial Lawyers Care.

-- Martin W. Edelman, President