In a way, it makes perfect sense.
Let's say you make $45000 a year. You screw up and are suspended from work for three days without pay. Your paycheck is $540.00 short at the end of the month.
Shaquille O'Neal screws up and is handed a three game suspension without pay. This three game suspension cost him $1,000,000.
Punitive damage judgments against companies are often based on a percentage of net worth. Obviously, a $10,000 punitive damage award would mean nothing to General Motors while it would break Bob & Jim's Screen Door Company.
Fines and penalties based on the ability to pay are far more equitable than our present system.
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