Hunter Loggins, State Director of the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), expressed support for Kemp's initiative to address lawsuit abuse. "Frivolous claims harm small businesses without the resources to fight them," Loggins said on the NFIB's website on January 16.
"Our small business members appreciate Governor Kemp's call for legislation," said Loggins. "Stop lawsuit abuse in Georgia."
According to the NFIB's website, the proposed reforms aim to create a more business-friendly legal environment by limiting excessive liability, promoting fair medical damage awards, shielding businesses from frivolous lawsuits, and regulating third-party litigation funding (TPLF). These changes are intended to reduce insurance costs, enhance legal stability, and support small businesses in reinvesting and generating jobs.
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce describes TPLF as a secretive, multi-billion-dollar industry where investors, including foreign entities, finance lawsuits for profit. It raises concerns about increased litigation costs, national security risks, and reduced payouts for plaintiffs. Policymakers are advocating for greater transparency and regulation to protect the U.S. legal system.
In 2024, the average annual cost of full-coverage auto insurance in the U.S. rose to $2,543, reflecting a 26% increase from 2023. Georgia's average premium of $2,610 is slightly above the national average. According to Fox 5, higher claim frequencies and rising repair costs have contributed to this surge in premiums. In 2023, the U.S. reported 5.5 million auto insurance claims, with bodily injury claims being the most costly due to escalating medical expenses and more severe accidents.
Loggins' LinkedIn profile indicates that he is the State Director for NFIB in Georgia and advocates for small businesses in the state. With experience in grassroots management, public affairs, and legislative advocacy across multiple states, he has engaged business owners effectively. Previously, he managed regulatory affairs for the Georgia Agribusiness Council.