Gov. Snyder Expected To Pass 'I'm Sorry' Law

LANSING (AP) - Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder is expected to sign legislation aimed at providing some legal protection to medical providers who express sympathy or compassion to patients or their families.

The Republican governor is scheduled to sign a bill Tuesday that says a statement conveying sympathy or benevolence related to pain, suffering or death can't be used as evidence of admitting liability in a medical malpractice suit.

Many states already have enacted the so-called "I'm sorry" laws. Supporters say the laws allow and encourage doctors to express sorrow without fear their words will be taken as self-incrimination.

The law would not apply to a statement of negligence or culpable conduct that is part of or made in addition to a statement of sympathy.

The legislation is Senate Bill 53.

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