Hunter Loggins, the state director of the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), has identified Governor Brian Kemp's tort reform package as a top priority for the organization this legislative session. In a press release dated February 21, Loggins said that NFIB would report every legislative vote to its members.
"Gov. Kemp's tort reform package is one of NFIB's top priorities this session," said Loggins, Georgia State Director. "We're making it clear to senators that small business owners overwhelmingly support this legislation. We'll report every vote to our members, their constituents. Too many lawsuits exploit the system. Instead of holding the responsible party accountable, trial lawyers often go after the defendant with the deepest pockets—too often, that's a small business."
According to Loggins, the organization plans to key-vote Georgia’s Senate Bill 68, which seeks to curb lawsuit abuse and bolster protections for small businesses. He noted that small business owners are in strong support of the legislation and emphasized that every vote will be communicated to members and their constituents.
On February 7, 2025, Protecting American Consumers Together (PACT) released a poll indicating that 72% of Georgia voters believe lawsuit abuse contributes to higher costs of goods and services. The poll showed bipartisan support across Republicans (88%), Independents (64%), and Democrats (62%). Conducted by Public Opinion Strategies from February 2-5, 2025, the survey also revealed that 85% of voters consider it important for the Legislature to address lawsuit abuse to reduce hidden taxes on consumers. Additionally, reforms are supported by 82% of individuals who have used personal injury lawyers.
A study by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Institute for Legal Reform, released on January 24, found that rising tort costs in Georgia are imposing an increasing financial burden on households, elevating insurance premiums and overall living expenses. In 2022, these tort costs amounted to nearly $20 billion in Georgia, averaging over $2,000 per household.
InsuranceRateReporter.com reported on February 18 about a survey conducted by the American Property Casualty Insurance Association (APCIA) and Munich Re US. The survey highlighted plaintiff lawyer tactics such as third-party litigation funding (TPLF) and jury anchoring as factors contributing to rising insurance costs with an estimated $529 billion impact on the U.S. economy. It found that 69% of Americans believe these practices increase insurance premiums while 86% support legal reforms addressing these issues. However, awareness remains low among respondents regarding these tactics; with only a minority recognizing terms like jury anchoring or TPLF.
As NFIB's state director in Georgia, Loggins is a key advocate for small businesses within the General Assembly. His role involves overseeing member engagement and political involvement throughout the state. Previously serving as NFIB’s grassroots manager, he worked towards keeping small business members informed and engaged on policy issues across Alabama, Georgia, and Mississippi.