GA News News Gazette

GA Attorney General: Tort reform will restore ‘balance to our courts while lowering costs for consumers and business owners’
State Legislature
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Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr | https://law.georgia.gov/biography-attorney-general

Chris Carr, the Attorney General of Georgia, expressed his support for the recent legislative actions in the state. He said that he was "proud to stand with lawmakers in the Georgia House who passed 'common sense litigation reform' that will restore 'balance to our courts while lowering costs for consumers and business owners.'" Carr made this statement in a March 20 post on X.

"Proud to stand with Governor Kemp, Speaker Jon Burns, and the Georgia House in support of common sense litigation reform - restoring balance to our courts while lowering costs for consumers & business owners throughout our state," said Carr.

Georgia lawmakers have approved a significant tort reform measure aimed at addressing the state's designation as a "Judicial Hellhole," sending it to Governor Brian Kemp for signature. According to a press release from the American Tort Reform Association (ATRA), the legislature's efforts create the potential for a more balanced civil justice system in Georgia. ATRA President Tiger Joyce said that the reforms specifically target issues contributing to Georgia's negative legal reputation. The measure is seen as a step toward reducing frivolous lawsuits and improving fairness in the state's courts.


AG Carr's March 20 statement | X.com

On January 30, Governor Kemp issued a press release announcing the comprehensive tort reform package designed to create fairness in Georgia’s court system and prevent exploitation by foreign entities. The proposal aims to stabilize insurance costs for businesses and consumers while promoting transparency and fairness in legal proceedings. Joined by Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones, Speaker Jon Burns, and Insurance Commissioner John King, Kemp emphasized the critical need to protect hardworking Georgians from rising costs due to excessive litigation. The reform package, supported by industry leaders, is expected to improve the state’s business climate and legal system.

On February 7, 2025, Protecting American Consumers Together (PACT) released a poll revealing that 72% of Georgia voters believe lawsuit abuse contributes to rising costs of goods and services, with bipartisan agreement across Republicans (88%), Independents (64%), and Democrats (62%). The survey conducted by Public Opinion Strategies also found that 85% of voters think it’s important for the legislature to address lawsuit abuse to eliminate hidden taxes on consumers. Additionally, 82% of individuals who have used 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 a growing 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 both businesses and consumers.

Carr was appointed as Georgia's Attorney General by Governor Nathan Deal in 2016 and was re-elected in November 2022. He is committed to protecting and defending both U.S. and Georgia constitutions, state laws, and interests of Georgians. Carr emphasizes his office's role in ensuring justice and upholding rule of law.