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Browne Bill Expands Suits for
Terror Victims
HB 477 Provides for Civil Suits to
Recover Damages
HARRISBURG -- A bill introduced by Senator
Pat Browne that would allow victims to recover damages
resulting from acts of terror is now before Governor Ed
Rendell for his signature and enactment into law.
House Bill 477, which
Senator Browne introduced as a state representative before
winning his current seat in a special election, will let
victims and their families recover general, specific and
punitive damages including damages for emotional distress,
fees, costs and any other relief that the court deems
necessary and proper.
"Currently, Pennsylvania law
does not provide a specific cause of action to recover
damages resulting from acts of terror, but victims could
bring a civil action for wrongful death, battery and the
like," Senator Browne said. "However, my legislation will
make the recovery of damages easier for victims and their
families and will permit them to recover damages in state
court that may not otherwise be available to them."
Many states, including
Florida, Michigan, Ohio, Oklahoma, Utah, and West Virginia
have enacted similar legislation following the September 11
terrorist attack on the World Trade Center in 2001.
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