HR 5214 · 97th Congress · Commerce

Products Liability Act of 1982

Introduced 1981-12-14· Sponsored by Rep. Shumway, Norman D. [R-CA-14]· House

Bill Progress

Introduced
2
Committee
3
House Vote
4
Senate
5
Enacted
Latest: For Further Action See H.R.7284.(1982-10-01)

Plain Language Summary

[AI summary unavailable — showing source text] Products Liability Act of 1982 - Sets forth uniform national standards for products liability cases. Provides that this Act preempts inconsistent Federal and State laws. Permits actions under this Act to be brought in State court or Federal court if the United States is a party or diversity jurisdiction exists. Prohibits recovery for other than commercial loss or damage to the product itself, except as otherwise provided in this Act. Sets forth basic standards of responsibility for manufacturers and product sellers other than manufacturers, including wholesalers, distributors, retailers, lessors, packagers, and repairers. Establishes rules relating to proof in products liability cases with respect to government standards and contract specifications. Prohibits admission of postmanufacturing improvements except for the purpose of impeaching a witness for the product seller who denies the feasibility of such improvements. Provides that all product liability actions shall be governed by the principles of comparative responsibility. Specifies the manner in which damages are to be apportioned. Requires the reduction of any damage award by the amount of workers' compensation benefits whic…

Summarized by Claude AI · Non-partisan · For informational purposes only

Cosponsors (16)

5 Democrats11 Republicans