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Pence signs med-mal cap increase on final day

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IL for www.theindianalawyer.com

Medical malpractice victims will be eligible for more compensation after Gov. Mike Pence signed into law a bill increasing the payment cap for the first time since the 1990s. The cap would increase from the current $1.25 million limit to $1.65 million next year and then to $1.8 million in 2019.

The bill was among the last Pence signed Thursday, the deadline for his signature or veto on legislation passed by the 2016 Indiana General Assembly.

Supporters say the increase was needed to protect the cap from court challenges since it hasn’t been raised for so long. Some medical groups opposed the size of the cap increase, saying doctors would not be able to absorb jumps in malpractice insurance premiums.

However, bill author Sen. Brent Steele, R-Bedford, said medical groups such as the Indiana Hospital Association, Indiana State Medical Association and Indiana Health Care Association, as well as the Indiana Trial Lawyers Association, testified in favor of the bill. He said there was recognition that the Medical Malpractice Act could be ruled unconstitutional without an increase in caps, as has happened in other states.

Senate Enrolled Act 28 also includes these provisions:

• Adjusts the total amount of attorney fees recoverable under a med-mal action. Instead of the current limit of 15 percent of any award from the Indiana Patient Compensation Fund, attorney fees are now capped at 32 percent of any recovery under the act.

• Increases the liability for private insurers from $250,000 to $400,000 for an act of malpractice after June 30, 2017. Liability for private insurers increases to $500,000 after June 30, 2019. Any award in excess of that level will be paid from the Patient Compensation Fund.

Dr. Bucshon Takes EPA Administrator to Task on Carbon Capture

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(WASHINGTON, DC) –During an Energy and Commerce Committee hearing on the 2017 Environmental Protect Agency (EPA) budget, Eighth District Congressman Larry Bucshon, M.D. took Administrator Gina McCarthy to task on the economic viability of Carbon Capture and Sequestration (CCS).

When asked by Bucshon if any coal facility in the United States is successfully implementing CCS, McCarthy could only produce the name of one. Unfortunately, the facility McCarthy referenced is no longer operating.

Here’s an excerpt of the interaction:

Bucshon: “Okay, so are there any coal facilities that [carbon capture and sequestration is] working on right now today?”

McCarthy:  “I believe it’s in Kemper and I believe there is a dam in Canada where it’s being fully utilized.”

 

Bucshon: “The one in Canada is going broke and Kemper is not operating.”

 

Through the agency’s proposed regulations, the EPA is attempting to force coal-powered generation facilities to implement the costly Carbon Capture and Sequestration.  During his exchange with McCarthy, Bucshon highlighted that it’s not feasible for current coal facilities to implement carbon capture because the technology is not yet commercially or economically viable.

 

Bucshon: “The reality is that was misleading, I think, to say that carbon capture and sequestration – for when we were talking about coal fire power plants – is commercially viable. In Indiana I have every coal mine in the state, so to my knowledge, you know, it’s not commercially viable or economically viable to implement that in Indiana. If it was I would be in favor of it being on all of our coal fire power plants. Just so you know, I agree the earth’s temperature is changing and I agree with technology and innovation we should always be advancing how we use all of our fuels. I agree with that premise. What I don’t agree with is federal agencies setting regulations that can’t be met with current technology and that’s what this is doing.”

Happy Easter From The City-CountyObserver

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Adopt A Pet

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 Elliot is a male cat of about 4 years old. His sister Evelyn was recently sent to a shelter in Chicago to find a new home, but Elliot got a cold so he had to stay behind. Now he’s on the mend, and looking for a permanent lap to lay in! His $30 adoption fee includes his neuter, microchip, and vaccines. Call (812) 426-2563 or visit www.vhslifesaver.org for adoption details!

 

Governor Pence Vetoes Bill That May Lessen Ability to Maintain Clean and Safe Drinking Water

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Indianapolis – Governor Mike Pence today vetoed House Enrolled Act 1082, known as the “no more stringent” bill, which would have prevented environmental standards or rules put forth by the Indiana Department of Environmental Management that impose a restriction or requirement more stringent than federal law from going into effect until after adjournment sine die of the next General Assembly.

“In recent months, public concern over clean and safe drinking water has grown as a result of the situation in Flint, Michigan,” said Governor Pence. “Our Indiana Department of Environmental Management is vigilant about requiring regular testing of water systems across the state for lead and working with any systems that are out of compliance to implement plans that will return the water to safe levels.  IDEM must have the necessary flexibility to take action to protect Hoosiers.  House Enrolled Act 1082 restricts IDEM’s ability to act and imposes unnecessary delay in its rulemaking process.  At a time when we must do all that we can to enhance public trust in the agencies charged with protecting our environment, this bill moves in the wrong direction and will therefore receive my veto.  With this veto, Hoosiers can be assured that we will continue to have the necessary discretion and flexibility to create Indiana solutions at the state level and act in a timely way to protect our drinking water.”

To follow legislation as it reaches the Governor’s desk, visit http://in.gov/gov/2016billwatch.htm.

Background:  Every six months, IDEM requires Indiana’s 1,369 drinking water systems to sample and test water for lead and copper, both at the treatment facility and at the tap.  Results must be submitted to IDEM.  IDEM standards also require that a system that switches sources of water to sample before distributing the water to assess treatment that will ensure safe and clean water.  Water systems can treat the water with phosphorus to eliminate corrosiveness.

If more than 10 percent of results show greater than 15 parts per billion (ppb) for lead, IDEM issues a Lead Exceedance Letter that requires the system to formulate and implement a plan to reduce lead levels and do the following:

    • Notify the public by newspaper and in the water bill or separate mailing to all users within 30 days.
    • Educate the public about sources of lead, what the system is doing to reduce lead levels and steps that can be taken to reduce the possibility of ingesting lead by running cold water at their taps before use.
    • Treat the water to reduce its corrosive characteristics.
    • Add chemicals that coat the pipes to help prevent further corrosion.
    • Replace lead distribution lines if necessary.

 

IDEM inspectors work closely with communities to help them return to compliance and oversees implementation of their plans.

 

The Fort Wayne Komets Heavily Outshot The Evansville IceMen

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FORT WAYNE, IN – The Fort Wayne Komets heavily outshot the Evansville IceMen and got a little help from a controversial goal at the end of the second period on their way to a 3-1 win Saturday at Memorial Coliseum.

Evansville received three first period power plays, and on the second man-advantage, Nick Trecapelli blasted a one-timer from the left point past Komets goalie Alex Vazzano late in the frame. It was Trecapelli’s first career goal. The IceMen registered their first official shot just over 11 minutes into the game, but finished with seven in the period. Christoffer Bengtsberg stopped all 12 Fort Wayne shots in the first 20 minutes.

Fort Wayne dominated the second period, outshooting Evansville 16-2. However, Bengtsberg was stellar in net in keeping the Komets off the board. At the buzzer, a Komets shot deflected up into the air and bounced into the net after the horn. Initially it was ruled no goal, but after a lengthy conversation, the call was reversed and Fort Wayne was rewarded the game-tying goal.

Garrett Meurs got credit for the goal, and added a second one with 8:18 left in regulation to give Fort Wayne their first lead. Rookie David Friedmann fired a shot from the slot past Bengtsberg for his first career goal with 6:38 to play to put the game out of reach, as the Komets cruised to victory. Bengtsberg was solid in the loss, as he stopped 39 of 42 shots, while Vazzano made 12 stops in the win.

The IceMen return home for their final two home games at the Ford Center next weekend. Friday, Evansville hosts the Cincinnati Cyclones at 7:05pm on Autism Awareness Night. Saturday, April 2 is the Home Finale at 7:05pm, as the IceMen finish their home schedule against the Tulsa Oilers. The IceMen wrap up the weekend with a quick stop back in Fort Wayne at 5pm EST Sunday, April 3.

FINAL HOME GAMES
Fri. 4/1 – Cincinnati at Evansville (7:15pm) – Ford Center
Autism Awareness Night
Sat. 4/2 – Tulsa at Evansville (7:15pm) – Ford Center
Home Finale – TRCI Mini Stick Giveaway – Zooperstars

AUTISM AWARENESS NIGHT – APRIL 1ST
The IceMen only have two home games remaining at the Ford Center. Evansville hosts the Cincinnati Cyclones on Friday, April 1 at 7:05pm on Autism Awareness Night. Representatives from Inspiring Autism Spectrum Families will be in attendance and have a booth on the concourse with information to raise awareness, and the first 1,000 fans through the gates will receive bandanas.

FRIDAY HAT PACKS
Get a ticket and a limited edition IceMen hat for only $20 for the game Friday, April 1 against the Cincinnati Cyclones at 7:05pm. This is the final Friday game of the season, and the last chance to take advantage of this offer. Call the IceMen front office at 812-421-GOAL (4625) for details.

“MEMORIES WEEKEND” – HOME FINALE – APRIL 2nd
Evansville plays its final game at the Ford Center Saturday, April 2 at 7:05pm against the Tulsa Oilers. As a part of “Memories Weekend”, the IceMen will celebrate memories of the organization’s eight years in Evansville from the AAHL days, to the CHL to the ECHL, including the team’s Davidson Cup Championship in 2010. The first 1,000 fans into the arena will receive team autographed mini goalie sticks, presented by TRCI.

ZOOPERSTARS RETURN
Saturday, April 2 also marks the much anticipated return of the ZOOperstars, when the IceMen take on Tulsa at 7:05pm at the Ford Center for the Home Finale. Dance along with the likes of “Mario Lemule”, “Whale Gretzky” and “Squidney Crosby” as they perform during the first and second intermission. For more information about the ZOOperstars or to see a sample video of one of their performances, visit: http://www.zooperstars.com/top-intermission-entertainment-act-for-nhl-minor-league-hockey.html

FAMILY 4 PACKS ARE BACK
Get 4 Upper Level tickets to either IceMen game next weekend for only $40! Lower level tickets are also available at a discounted rate when buying 4 or more. The offer is only available online or by calling the IceMen offices at 812-421-GOAL (4625).

Visit us at www.evansvilleicemen.com, like us on Facebook, or follow us on Twitter @EvvIceMen for more information about your hometown professional hockey team.

WEEKEND OFF TOPIC ” READERS FORUM”

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WEEKEND OFF TOPIC “READERS FORUM”

TELL US WHATS ON YOUR MIND TODAY?

FOOTNOTE: Our next “IS IT TRUE” will be posted on this coming Monday?

If you would like to advertise in the CCO please contact us City-County Observer@live.com.

Todays “Readers Poll” question is: If the election was held today for the Republican primary for the 8th Congressional seat who would you vote for?

Copyright 2015 City County Observer. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed

Mandatory Payout $8 Million + Gulfstream’s Rainbow Pick 6

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Mandatory Payout This Saturday on Gulfstream’s Giant Rainbow Pick 6!
Gulfstream Park has been building a multi-million dollar Rainbow Pick 6 since January and this Saturday is a mandatory payout 

! The carryover could go as  high as $10 Million Dollars if the Rainbow is not won by a single bettor before Saturday!
Stop by Ellis Park
Try your luck on the Gulfstream Rainbow Pick 6 this Saturday!
Gates open at 9:00am Saturday, March 26th for the Dubai World Cup, don’t miss California Chrome run!
Instant Racing Machines open at 9:00am.
Ellis Park has New Hours of Operation! 
Sun-Wed: 9am – 2am
Thurs-Sat: 9am – 4am
Rainbow Pick 6
Gulfstream’s first race is at 11:35am Central with Rainbow Pick 6 running races 7 – 12.

Florey and Parr lead Aces to first MVC win

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Final game of series set for Saturday at noon 

Morgan Florey and Chandra Parr helped the University of Evansville softball team earn its first Missouri Valley Conference win of the season as the Purple Aces took the second game of the doubleheader against UNI on Friday afternoon at Cooper Stadium.

Evansville (12-15, 1-4 MVC) fell to UNI (23-9, 3-2 MVC) by a 6-0 final in the first game of the day before rebounding with a 6-1 triumph in game two.  The teams are set for the rubber match on Saturday at noon inside Cooper Stadium.

“I am very proud of how our girls bounced back today,” Aces head coach Mat Mundell said.  “We play six really good innings in game one and were really able to put it together in game two.  UNI is one of the best teams in the conference and we played right with them all day.”

A pitcher’s duel took place in the first game as the contest was scoreless for the first five frames.  Starters Amanda Blankenship along with Chelsea Ross of UNI allowed a combined 11 hits in their 14 innings of work.  Northern Iowa was the first to find the scoreboard as they pushed a run across in the sixth on a Micalla Rettinger RBI single.

The Panthers saw five more runs cross the plate in the top of the 7th as a 3-run home run from Anna Varriano was the big play in the inning.  The Aces finished the game with five hits as Courtney Land hit two of them.

UNI was able to get on the board right away in game two as Chelsea Ross hit a home run to deep center field to give the Panthers an early 1-0 advantage.  Evansville came right back in the bottom half of the inning utilizing some 2-out magic.  After the first two batters of the game struck out, the Purple Aces saw five batters in a row reach base.

With the bases loaded, a wild pitch brought home Chandra Parr for the first run of the day for UE.  Pitcher Morgan Florey helped her own cause, shooting a single up the middle to bring in two more runs to give UE a 3-1 lead.  Evansville struck again in the bottom of the third as Danielle Freeman laced a double to left field, plating Parr, who reached base earlier in the inning.  She would later score on an error to give the Aces a 5-1 edge.

One more run would cross the plate in the sixth and Florey got the job done in the circle, throwing a complete game en route to her sixth win over the season.  She allowed one run on six hits and struck out six batters.  The Aces notched six hits in the second game as Parr, Freeman and Florey had two apiece.

Tomorrow, the final game of the series will take place at Cooper Stadium in a noon start time.

Strain stars as UE shuts out Eastern Kentucky 

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RICHMOND, Ky. – Connor Strain put together his best start of the season on Friday afternoon, and the University of Evansville baseball team took full advantage of it as the Purple Aces dealt Eastern Kentucky a 4-0 decision at Turkey Hughes Field.

Strain (2-1) was once again impeccable on the mound, allowing just three hits and a walk over six frames. The senior right-hander also set a career high with eight strikeouts, and he’s now tossed 14.1 consecutive scoreless innings since returning from injury earlier this month.

“Right now, I’m just having a whole lot of fun going out there and competing,” Strain said. “I’m not taking it for granted, and I’m trying to do my best to help the team win. I had the confidence to throw all of my pitches today regardless of the count, and that makes a huge difference.”

“Connor just took control of the game for us,” UE head coach Wes Carroll added. “He was a really confident pitcher all game, and that’s what you like to see from your No. 1 starter. The key to our success is to get solid pitching and to take care of the baseball defensively. That’s something that we’ve been harping on the last couple weeks, so this is an important win for us.”

The defensive prowess also wasn’t missed on Strain.

“We’ve been playing a lot better defense,” the senior explained. “For me, as a sinker ball pitcher, I’m going to get a lot of ground balls, and it’s huge to see those guys making plays for me. It really puts me at ease to have them behind me like that because it allows me to focus on making my pitches.”

After being held hitless through the first three innings, the Aces (10-10) were able to get going in a big way in the fourth. Josh Jyawook led off the frame with a double, and Travis Tokarek, who was inserted into the line-up shortly before first pitch due to an injury, sent a 2-0 pitch soaring over the fence in right field to give UE the lead.

“Coach Carroll was talking earlier this week about how we need to show up with the right kind of intensity, whether you’re in the line-up or not,” Tokarek said. “I think the whole team did that today, and for me, I guess it kind of carried through into my at-bats.”

UE would manufacture another score with an Eric McKibban groundout in the fifth, and Jonathan Ramon hit his team-leading sixth home run of the season in the sixth to make it 4-0.

The Aces have now homered 22 times this season, surpassing the season total of a year ago.

Eric Nerl (3-1), who got the start on the mound for the Colonels (10-12), was pegged with his first loss of the season after allowing all four runs on six hits over eight innings.

EKU would try to make things interesting late, but Aces closer Brent Jurceka proved up to the task, stranding two in the eighth before tossing a perfect ninth to record his second save of the season.

The Aces will be back in action on Saturday with a doubleheader at Turkey Hughes Field, beginning at 11 a.m. Eastern time.

NOTES: Friday marked the second UE shutout of the season … It was also the first true road shutout since a 10-0 decision at Bradley on April 26, 2015 … The last time the Aces had a nine-inning road shutout was a 1-0 victory at Missouri State on May 15, 2014 … Jonathan Ramon’s six home runs represent the highest single-season total for an Aces hitter since former star Kevin Kaczmarski left the park six times in 2013 … The 22 team homers are the most in a single season since 2011, when the Aces hit 26 … Since 1978, the Aces are 9-8-1 against Eastern Kentucky and 112-85-2 vs. schools that hail from the state of Kentucky.

 

 

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