State Representative John Carson of Georgia's House District 46 has expressed support for the state's tort reform bill, stating it "strikes the right balance between supporting our robust business climate and safeguarding victims' rights." Carson made this statement in a social media post on March 20.
"In Georgia, we've dedicated considerable time to recruiting businesses from across America to make our state their home," said Carson. "To maintain Georgia's status as the top state for business, we must address our legal environment. Tort reform will assist us in achieving that—while preserving Georgians' rights to legal recourse when they've been wronged. The House Committee on Tort Reform has spent hours hearing testimony both in support of and against the proposal. This legislation strikes the right balance between supporting our robust business climate and safeguarding victims' rights. I am pleased to vote in favor of the Governor's tort reform package."
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), there is potential to create a more balanced civil justice system in the state due to the legislature's efforts. ATRA President Tiger Joyce said that the reforms target issues contributing to Georgia’s negative legal reputation, aiming to reduce frivolous lawsuits and improve fairness in the state's courts.
Rep. Carson's March 20 statement
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On January 30, Governor Kemp announced a 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. Kemp, joined by Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones, Speaker Jon Burns, and Insurance Commissioner John King, emphasized the need to protect Georgians from rising costs due to excessive litigation. Industry leaders backing the reform package said it will enhance the state’s business climate and legal system.
Protecting American Consumers Together (PACT) released a poll on February 7, 2025, revealing that 72% of Georgia voters believe lawsuit abuse contributes to rising costs of goods and services. The survey indicated bipartisan agreement among 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 addressing lawsuit abuse important for eliminating hidden taxes on consumers. Additionally, 82% of individuals who have used personal injury lawyers support reforms to the current system.
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 placing an increasing financial burden on households, impacting insurance premiums and overall cost of living. In 2022, these costs reached nearly $20 billion statewide, averaging over $2,000 per household. These expenses arise from civil litigation, claim compensation, and administrative costs affecting both businesses and consumers.
Carson was elected to the Georgia House of Representatives in 2011 representing District 46, which includes parts of Cobb and Cherokee Counties. He serves as Chairman of the Retirement Committee and is a member of several key committees such as Appropriations, Transportation, and Ways & Means. An Atlanta native raised in a family encouraging community service.