Shawn Kearney

I oppose this bill for the following reasons: Singling Out a Specific Medical Field: This bill creates a legal double standard by singling out one specific, evidence-based area of medicine for a vastly extended liability window. Statute of limitations exist to ensure that legal disputes are settled while evidence and memories are fresh; extending this to 10 years past adulthood (potentially 20+ years after the care was provided) is a departure from standard medical malpractice norms. Chilling Effect on Healthcare: By exposing healthcare providers to an unprecedented 28-year window of liability (from birth to age 28), this bill creates a "chilling effect." It discourages qualified medical professionals from practicing in New Hampshire and complicates the ability of families to access necessary, compassionate care for their children. Undermining Professional Standards: Medical providers should be held to the prevailing standard of care at the time of treatment. This legislation appears to use the legal system to second-guess established medical protocols, creating an environment of fear rather than one of patient safety. HB1356 is an unnecessary expansion of litigation that targets a specific group of patients and their doctors.