clarify a provision related to the award of punitive damages in a wrongful death action.

HB 1086 clarifies how punitive damages are awarded in wrongful death cases in South Dakota. The bill directly affects individuals involved in legal disputes where a death has occurred due to another party's actions. It specifies the conditions under which courts can grant additional monetary compensation beyond standard damages. This provision aims to provide clearer guidelines for judges and juries when determining punitive awards. The change does not alter existing rights but refines the legal language governing these specific financial penalties.