The AAJ, citing the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, reported today that ” The House Judiciary Committee has approved a bill to give active duty members of the military the right to file medical malpractice suits against the government. In a 14-12 vote along strict party lines, the Democratic controlled panel Wednesday sent the bill to the full House where supporters contend the measure to repeal the so-called Feres Doctrine stands a good chance of winning approval. Rep. Steve Cohen (D-NY), whose subcommittee backed the bill, said eliminating the lawsuit ban was a question of fundamental fairness. “

Supreme Court Petitioned to Allow Suits by Active Military Personnel
A recent AAJ article reports that a petition is pending requesting that the Supreme Court allow active duty military personnel to sue the government. Petty Officer Nathan Hafterson died on March 26, 2006, at Naval Hospital Jacksonville after being admitted for trouble breathing.