| Author | Subject: Re: Trust Juries not Politicians Coalition, Measure 81 |
| Del | Posted At 09:11:07 05/17/2000
A victory for average OregoniansConstitutional Amendment 81 has been defeated by about a 3 to 1 ratio. Don't be surprised if Republican Legislators, probably Gene Derfler since Kevin Mannix will not be in the next Oregon Legislature, propose something similar next session. This branch of government, which is SUPPOSED to represent the average citizen, has a history of ignoring the wishes of Oregon voters. Dozens decry move to limit jury awards Some doctors back Measure 81, saying it would help to contain insurance costs Tuesday, May 16, 2000 By Steven Du Bois of The Associated Press Elections Follow the candidates and issues in this year's elections. Shouting "Don't delay, vote no on Measure 81 right away," about three dozen advocates rallied in a downtown Portland park Monday, urging last-minute voters to defeat a measure that would limit the amount of money juries can award in personal injury lawsuits. Measure 81, a proposed constitutional amendment, is one of the most contentious measures on today's state primary ballot. If the measure passes, it would allow the Legislature to limit the amount juries can award victims in personal injury lawsuits. Some doctors say restrictions on jury awards are needed to hold down the costs of malpractice insurance for doctors and of insurance coverage for Oregonians. But opponents say legislators should not be allowed to decide limits on personal injury awards. "Our rights are being chipped away little by little, and I think it's time to say, 'No way on Measure 81,' " said Nancy Padilla, president of the Oregon Public Employees Union. Consumer advocates, politicians, paralegals and wheelchair-bound accident victims who carried anti-Measure 81 signs also attended the rally at Chapman Square. Polls show that most Oregonians agree with organizers of the rally, a coalition called Trust Juries, Not Politicians. Proponents of the measure, which was put on the ballot by the 1999 Legislature, concede they might lose. "I've said all along this would be a difficult issue to pass. It's emotional and complex," said Scott Gallant, director of government affairs for the Oregon Medical Association, which supports the measure. |
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