Tyler Harper, Georgia's Agriculture Commissioner, said that tort reform represents a victory for the state's farmers, who have experienced increasing insurance premiums. He noted that the legislation will assist in retaining more money within farm families' budgets, as expressed in his 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 the Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB), in its weekly legislative report, there is strong support for Governor Brian Kemp's tort reform initiatives. The report cited the adverse effects of the current legal climate on farmers and small businesses and emphasized Kemp's dedication to enacting meaningful tort reform to tackle issues such as rising insurance premiums and frivolous lawsuits.
Tyler Harper's Feb 21 statement
| X.com
GFB members convened at the Capitol on February 11, as reported by a GFB press release, to advocate for significant issues including tort reform. During discussions with legislators, they underscored the necessity of legal reforms to shield farmers and small businesses from excessive litigation. GFB President Tom McCall encouraged members to engage with their representatives in favor of policies fostering 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. This view is shared across party lines: Republicans (88%), Independents (64%), and Democrats (62%). The survey conducted by Public Opinion Strategies from February 2-5, 2025, also revealed that 85% of voters deem it important for the Legislature to address lawsuit abuse to remove hidden taxes on consumers. Furthermore, 82% of individuals who have engaged personal injury lawyers support reforms to the current system.
A study published by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Institute for Legal Reform on January 24 found that escalating tort costs in Georgia are imposing an increasing financial burden on households, affecting insurance premiums and overall living expenses. In 2022, the state's tort costs amounted to nearly $20 billion, averaging over $2,000 per household. These costs arise from civil litigation, claim compensation, and administrative expenses impacting both businesses and consumers.
Tyler J. Harper is a seventh-generation farmer and small business owner serving as Georgia's 17th Agriculture Commissioner and 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 remains actively involved in his community and has led several statewide organizations.