Oklahoma Republicans doubt enough tort reform coming

<br>(Oklahoma City-AP) -- Republican state lawmakers are outlining their plans for reducing the cost of medical malpractice lawsuits. <br><br>Senator Jim Williamson of Tulsa says the proposal for tort

Thursday, April 24th 2003, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

(Oklahoma City-AP) -- Republican state lawmakers are outlining their plans for reducing the cost of medical malpractice lawsuits.

Senator Jim Williamson of Tulsa says the proposal for tort reform would limit attorney fees and non-economic damages in lawsuits. It also requires a doctor to give ``expert certification'' that a lawsuit is legitimate before it can be filed.

Governor Brad Henry said Wednesday a task force has finished its work on tort reform legislation and will release its recommendations next week.

Henry would not discuss the proposal, but says it ensures that malpractice insurance will be affordable and still protect consumers with legitimate complaints about medical treatment.

Williamson says the bottom line for the GOP is whether the proposal reduces health care costs for Oklahomans.