The State - News from Sept. 29, 1985

A petition drive aimed at placing an initiative to limit so-called “deep-pockets” lawsuits on the June, 1986, state ballot will be launched next week by the state Chamber of Commerce and representatives of local governments, it was announced. The legal doctrine of “deep pockets” makes local governments, school districts and other agencies responsible for millions of dollars in legal damages for accidents in which they are only partly responsible, if other liable parties are unknown or cannot afford the damages. As a result, insurance premiums for city agencies have skyrocketed. The initiative would eliminate municipal liability for non-economic or pain and suffering damages.