Overview

This bill makes certain asbestos-related conditions, specifically pleural plaques, pleural thickening, and asbestosis, legally recognised as actionable personal injuries, allowing individuals to claim compensation even if these conditions haven't caused or are not likely to cause any physical impairment. It also amends limitation periods for related legal action.

Description

This bill amends existing laws regarding compensation claims for asbestos-related diseases. Key aspects include:

Pleural Plaques

The bill explicitly states that asbestos-related pleural plaques are considered a personal injury allowing those affected to claim damages. This overturns previous legal interpretations that prevented such claims.

Pleural Thickening and Asbestosis

Similarly, pleural thickening and asbestosis are also defined as actionable personal injuries. Crucially, claimants will not need to prove that these conditions have caused, are causing, or are likely to cause physical impairment to receive damages.

Limitation of Actions

The bill modifies the time limits for bringing legal action related to the aforementioned asbestos conditions. It essentially removes the period between October 17, 2007, and the bill's enactment from the calculation of the limitation period.

Retrospective Effect

Sections 1 and 2 of the bill are designed to have retrospective effect, meaning they apply to cases regardless of when the exposure occurred. However, this retrospective application doesn't affect claims settled or legal proceedings concluded before the bill's enactment.

Government Spending

The bill is expected to significantly increase government spending due to the increased number of successful compensation claims for asbestos-related conditions. Precise figures are not provided in the bill itself but would depend on the number of successful lawsuits.

Groups Affected

The bill primarily affects:

• Individuals with asbestos-related pleural plaques, pleural thickening, or asbestosis: This bill grants them the right to claim compensation, even in the absence of demonstrable physical impairment.
• Employers and insurers: They face increased liability and potential costs associated with compensation claims.
• Lawyers specializing in asbestos-related cases: They will likely see an increase in the number of cases.

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