Georgia lawmakers have approved a significant tort reform measure aimed at addressing the state's designation as a "Judicial Hellhole." The measure has been sent to Governor Brian Kemp for his signature. According to a press release from the American Tort Reform Association (ATRA), this legislative effort holds the potential to create a more balanced civil justice system in Georgia. ATRA President Tiger Joyce said that the reforms target issues contributing to Georgia’s negative legal reputation, marking a step toward reducing frivolous lawsuits and improving fairness in the state's courts.
"Today, the Georgia House took another step toward delivering much-needed reform to our state's current litigation environment," said Jon Burns, Speaker of the House. "SB 68 protects the rights of Georgians who have been harmed while ensuring that the scales of justice in our courtrooms are fair and balanced."
In an X post on March 20, Jon Burns, Speaker of the Georgia State House, said that SB 68 was advanced by the Georgia House to deliver needed litigation reform. He emphasized that this move aims to protect the rights of harmed Georgians while ensuring fairness and balance in the courts.
Speaker Burns March 20 statement
| X.com
According to a February 26 press release, Burns reiterated that the House is committed to working with Governor Kemp to pass significant legal reforms during this session. He noted that excessive lawsuits and rising insurance costs have long burdened Georgia’s citizens, businesses, and communities.
A poll released by Protecting American Consumers Together (PACT) on February 7, 2025, found that 72% of Georgia voters believe lawsuit abuse contributes to rising costs of goods and services. The survey conducted by Public Opinion Strategies revealed bipartisan agreement across Republicans (88%), Independents (64%), and Democrats (62%). It also highlighted 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 a growing financial burden on households. These costs impact insurance premiums and overall living expenses. In 2022, Georgia's tort costs reached nearly $20 billion, averaging over $2,000 per household. These expenses arise from civil litigation, claim compensation, and administrative costs affecting both businesses and consumers.
Jon Burns serves as Georgia’s 75th Speaker of the House representing the 159th district which includes Screven and parts of Effingham and Bulloch Counties. First elected in 2004, he became Speaker in 2023 and oversees legislative proceedings while advancing policy initiatives in Georgia.