Gov. Perry Canvasses Sept. 13 Constitutional Amendment Election Votes

AUSTIN - Gov. Rick Perry today formally canvassed the results of the Sept. 13 constitutional amendment election, certifying that Proposition 12 – the landmark tort reform amendment – and 21 other constitutional provisions passed.

Perry said the state’s successful effort to pass historic lawsuit abuse reform has paved the way for job creation and economic recovery.

“We passed into law the most sweeping tort reform measure in the nation,” Perry said. “These comprehensive reforms restore balance to our system of justice while maintaining proper protections for Texans who are harmed.”

Perry declared medical malpractice reform an emergency issue for the 78th Texas Legislature in response to a growing medical lawsuit abuse crisis that was hampering Texans’ access to health care. The legislature responded by approving a $250,000 cap on non-economic damages to prevent exorbitant jury awards that drive up malpractice rates. In addition, there is a $250,000 cap on non-economic damages against a single institution and a $500,000 cap on all health-care institutions combined.

The governor is responsible for certifying votes tabulated from any statewide election, outside of the elections for Governor and Lt. Governor.