AN ACT RELATING TO COURTS AND CIVIL PROCEDURE -- PROCEDURE GENERALLY -- CAUSES OF ACTION

HB 5908 allows plaintiffs in civil lawsuits to seek punitive damages when defendants acted with "willful or wanton conduct" or showed "reckless disregard" for others' health, safety, or welfare. It directly affects individuals bringing civil cases against entities or people who caused harm through knowingly dangerous or heedless actions. The bill defines "willful or wanton conduct" as behavior the defendant knew or should have known was dangerous, done without regard for consequences or others' safety. This change would apply to civil cases, including those under specific statutes, and takes effect upon passage.