Missouri Governor signs new punitive damages and Merchandising Practices Bill

The new law will overhaul Missouri provisions regarding punitive damages and unlawful merchandising practices.  As for punitive damages, the new law raises the standard so that such damages can only be awarded if the plaintiff proves by “clear and convincing evidence” that the defendant intentionally harmed the plaintiff without cause or acted with deliberate and flagrant disregard for the safety of others.  As for merchandising practices, the new law requires plaintiffs to prove that they acted as a “reasonable consumer” and that any damages be reasonably related to the harm caused.