Auto Bailout Accident Victims Recovery Act of 2025
Summary
The "Auto Bailout Accident Victims Recovery Act of 2025" aims to waive the statute of limitations for cases against the government related to the General Motors bailout filed on or before July 9, 2015. It seeks to provide just compensation to eligible claimants who suffered death or personal injuries due to alleged defects in GM vehicles manufactured before June 1, 2009. The bill defines eligible claims, claimants, and outlines the method for calculating just compensation, including interest and legal fees.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this act would allow eligible accident victims to pursue legal claims against the government, even if the statute of limitations has expired. The government would be required to provide just compensation to these claimants, potentially resulting in significant payouts. The Attorney General must report to Congress if settlements are not reached within 60 days of enactment, ensuring accountability.
Potential Benefits
- Provides a pathway for accident victims harmed by defective GM vehicles to receive compensation.
- Waives the statute of limitations, allowing claims that would otherwise be time-barred.
- Ensures just compensation, including interest and legal fees, to eligible claimants.
- Offers a defined formula for calculating compensation, promoting transparency.
- Requires a report to Congress if settlements are not reached, ensuring government accountability.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased government spending due to compensation payouts.
- May set a precedent for waiving statutes of limitations in other cases.
- The definition of 'eligible claim' is narrow, potentially excluding some deserving victims.
- The compensation formula might not fully cover all losses and damages.
- Could incentivize further litigation against the government.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill addresses the Takings Clause of the Fifth Amendment, which requires the government to provide just compensation when it takes private property for public use. By waiving the statute of limitations and mandating just compensation, the bill attempts to align with this constitutional principle. However, the determination of what constitutes a 'taking' and 'just compensation' can be subject to legal interpretation and debate. The bill also references Article 1, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to make all laws which shall be necessary and proper for carrying into execution the foregoing powers, and all other powers vested by this Constitution in the government of the United States, or in any department or officer thereof.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).