Georgians for Lawsuit Reform (GLR) announced that Governor Brian Kemp's proposed tort reform legislation is expected to reduce legal expenses and lower costs for businesses and consumers. The announcement was made on X on January 30.
The announcement outlines several legislative measures aimed at reducing legal costs and curbing lawsuit abuse in Georgia. Key provisions include limiting medical damage awards to actual incurred costs to prevent inflated jury awards, restricting attorneys from using high-dollar economic comparisons to influence jury decisions, and prohibiting third-party litigation funding from foreign entities. Additional reforms address premises liability, the use of seatbelt evidence in auto cases, and the ability of plaintiffs to dismiss and refile cases after trial proceedings have begun.
According to the announcement, Georgia’s litigation costs are among the highest in the country, contributing to increased insurance premiums and higher expenses for businesses and consumers. The proposed legislation aims to change legal procedures affecting these costs, including rules on attorney fees, jury awards, and liability standards. GLR says these changes would align Georgia’s legal system more closely with other states and impact both businesses and individuals involved in civil litigation.
Georgians for Lawsuit Reform's X post
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The Institute for Legal Reform reports that in 2022, Georgia’s tort costs totaled nearly $20 billion, representing 2.6% of the state’s GDP. The report states that this equated to an average of $5,050 per household, highlighting the financial impact of litigation-related expenses on residents. These costs include attorney fees, settlements, and court expenses across multiple industries, contributing to the overall cost of goods, services, and insurance.
GLR is a nonpartisan nonprofit organization based in Atlanta dedicated to promoting a fair, balanced, and efficient legal climate for all Georgia citizens. Established in 2016, GLR operates as a 501(c)(6) business league focusing on improving business conditions through advocacy and education.