Tyler Harper, Agriculture Commissioner of the State of Georgia, said that tort reform represents a victory for Georgia's farmers who have experienced rising insurance premiums. Harper made this statement in a February 21 post on X.
"Tort reform is a huge victory for Georgia's #1 industry," said Harper. "Georgia farmers have seen their insurance premiums skyrocket in recent years, and this critical legislation will help keep more money in our farm families pockets."
According to a weekly legislative report by the Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB), the organization expressed strong support for Governor Brian Kemp's tort reform initiatives. The report highlighted the adverse effects of the current legal climate on farmers and small businesses. GFB also noted Kemp's commitment to passing meaningful tort reform to address issues such as increasing insurance premiums and frivolous lawsuits.
Tyler Harper's Feb 21 statement
| X.com
The Georgia Farm Bureau reported that its members gathered at the Capitol on February 11 to advocate for key issues, including tort reform. During meetings with legislators, they emphasized the need for legal reforms to protect farmers and small businesses from excessive litigation. GFB President Tom McCall encouraged members to engage with their representatives to support policies that create a fairer legal environment.
On February 7, 2025, Protecting American Consumers Together (PACT) released a poll indicating that 72% of Georgia voters believe lawsuit abuse contributes to rising costs of goods and services. The survey showed bipartisan agreement across Republicans (88%), Independents (64%), and Democrats (62%). Conducted by Public Opinion Strategies from February 2-5, 2025, it also found that 85% of voters consider it important for the Legislature to address lawsuit abuse to eliminate hidden taxes on consumers. Additionally, 82% of individuals who have utilized personal injury lawyers support reforms to the current system.
A study released by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Institute for Legal Reform on January 24 found that rising tort costs in Georgia are placing an increasing financial burden on households, impacting insurance premiums and overall cost of living. In 2022, the state's tort costs reached nearly $20 billion, averaging over $2,000 per household. These expenses stem from civil litigation, claim compensation, and administrative costs affecting businesses and consumers alike.
Tyler J. Harper is a seventh-generation farmer and small business owner serving as Georgia’s 17th Agriculture Commissioner and is a former State Senator. A lifelong resident of South Georgia from Ocilla, he holds degrees in Agricultural Engineering from the University of Georgia and agriculture from Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College. Harper is actively involved in his community and has led various statewide organizations.