Browne Bill Expanding Terror Victims' Rights Enacted

Act 2 of 2006 Provides for Civil Suits to Recover Damages

A measure introduced by Senator Pat Browne allowing victims to recover damages resulting from acts of terror was the second bill signed into law by Governor Ed Rendell in 2006.

Act 2 of 2006, which Senator Browne introduced as House Bill 477 while a state representative before winning his current seat in a special election, lets victims and their families recover general, specific and punitive damages including damages for emotional distress, fees, costs and any other relief that the court deems necessary and proper.

"I am extremely pleased that the Governor signed this measure into law. Previously, Pennsylvania law did not provide a specific cause of action to recover damages resulting from acts of terror," Senator Browne said. "I hope this new law is never needed, but in the event of a future terrorist act, it will make the recovery of damages easier for victims and their families."

Many states, including Florida, Michigan, Ohio, Oklahoma, Utah, and West Virginia enacted similar legislation following the September 11 terrorist attack on the World Trade Center in 2001.

Contact: Matt Moyer (610) 821-8468