Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has signed emergency legislation to amend New Mexico’s new medical malpractice statute in order to prevent a potential loss of insurance coverage for certain healthcare providers.
The office of Governor Lujan Grisham stated that she signed the bill on Wednesday and appreciated the Legislature’s action during the recent special session on redistricting and pandemic relief.
Officials stated that the new medical malpractice law, which goes into effect on January 1, must be amended so that numerous physician-owned small businesses can maintain insurance coverage and remain operational.
A coalition of plaintiffs’ attorneys, hospital administrators, physicians, and patient advocates supported the special session legislation to remove uncertainties regarding the legal liability of independent physicians, including surgeons who practice at multiple hospitals.
The new law enacted on January 1 modifies New Mexico’s damages limits for those injured by medical malpractice or negligence.
