CIVIL PRO-PREJUDGMENT INTEREST

Amends the Code of Civil Procedure. In actions for money damages in actions at law or in arbitration, authorizes either party to make an offer of settlement. If the offer is refused, the offering party is authorized prejudgment interest at 9% per annum from the date of the offer to the entry of the award or judgment if the offer was better for the refusing party than the award or judgment. Sets forth requirements for tender of an offer. Exempts actions by or against a governmental entity, actions in small claims, claims for punitive damages, actions governed by a contractual provision authorizing prejudgment interest, and actions governed by a more specific statute. Applies to causes of action accruing after January 1, 2010. Effective January 1, 2010.