The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) recently published a study detailing the economic repercussions of excessive lawsuits on Georgia consumers. The research revealed that such abuses within the legal system are costing Georgia households thousands of dollars annually.
The study, conducted by The Perryman Group on behalf of Citizens Against Lawsuit Abuse, disclosed that the high volume of tort lawsuits is costing an average Georgia family of four $5,592 every year, according to a press release from NFIB. It further noted that families in Atlanta bear an even heavier burden, with excessive torts costing them $8,336 annually. The report also underscored how the escalating number of lawsuits has resulted in the loss of 137,658 jobs across the state.
In a statement released by NFIB, Georgia State Director Hunter Loggins expressed his concerns over the situation. "Georgia’s litigation industry is taking a toll on each and every one of us. Georgia’s legal climate has steadily worsened over the years. That’s bad news for everyone, but it puts small businesses in a particularly tough spot," said Loggins. He emphasized that smaller Main Street businesses do not have large cash reserves or access to teams of lawyers to counter nuisance claims and false accusations. Loggins stressed that Georgia lawmakers should prioritize tort reform to protect both businesses and consumers. "We need our legislators to support efforts to create a legal landscape that treats everyone fairly," he added.
According to its website, NFIB is a nonprofit organization driven by its members and dedicated to advocating for small and independent businesses. Founded in 1943 and headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee, NFIB collaborates with legislators in all state capitals as well as Washington D.C.