Position Statement on Litigation Issues
The Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation is committed to addressing the health needs of the mesothelioma community, including the medical and psychosocial needs of patients and their loved ones. The Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation believes that all mesothelioma patients are entitled to and should seek legal counsel.
Position
The Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation refrains from taking a position on tort and liability legislation.
Reasoning
At the present time, a great deal of controversy is being focused on efforts to modify tort and liability laws on the state and federal level. The complexity and variety of laws in this area make it difficult to adopt a single position which will address all issues surrounding tort reform, thus we will refrain from taking a position.
Our primary function is to support the health needs[ref]The term “health needs” is inclusive of psychosocial needs as well.[/ref] of the patient. Involvement in tort and litigation issues does not fall into this category, nor is it our area of expertise. For this reason, it is our position that we will abstain from commenting on or supporting legislation that does not directly address the health needs of mesothelioma patients and their loved ones.
Exceptions
In the rare case that a piece of legislation addresses both the health needs of the mesothelioma community and tort issues, the Foundation reserves the right to reassess and reevaluate their position as needed.
The Meso Foundation is committed to ensuring high quality support to mesothelioma patients and their loved ones, using psychosocial support, education, research and advocacy to accomplish this goal. It is at the heart of the Meso Foundation’s mission to advance quality care for our community.
Approved by Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation Board of Directors, March 5, 2013
