Statement of interest of amici curiae.

This brief is filed on behalf of the Pennsylvania Defense Institute (PDI) and the International Association of Defense Counsel (IADC) as amici curiae. PDI is a state-wide association of defense counsel and insurance company executives. Its attorney members represent manufacturers, contractors, property owners, and casualty insurance and workers compensation carriers in the defense of claims brought against them. PDI provides a forum for developing public policy initiatives and for exchanging ideas in the pursuit of the prompt, fair, and just disposition of claims, the preservation of the administration of justice, the enhancement of the legal profession's services to the public, the elimination of court congestion and delays in civil litigation, and the promotion of other related public activities. To these ends, PDI represents the interests of its members on various matters affecting their interests, including legislation and litigation.

The IADC is an association of corporate and insurance attorneys from the United States and around the globe whose practice is concentrated on the defense of civil lawsuits. The IADC is dedicated to the just and efficient administration of civil justice and the continual improvement of the civil justice system. The IADC supports a justice system in which plaintiffs are fairly compensated for...