John F. Kennedy, a state senator for Georgia's District 18, said in a press release that the civil justice system should not be treated as a lottery for litigation financiers who manipulate court outcomes through unregulated third-party funding.
"The state's civil justice system should not be treated as a lottery where litigation financiers can bet on the outcome of a case to get a piece of a plaintiff's award," said F. Kennedy, Georgia State Senator from 18th District (R). "One more provision would mandate that all litigation financiers be registered in the state. Entities affiliated with a foreign adversary would be barred from registration. Through unregulated third-party financing, foreign-affiliated financiers are manipulating our legal system and influencing court outcomes."
According to Kennedy, in a column summarizing the 2025 legislative session, he highlighted the passage of meaningful tort reform as a key achievement. He noted it was a top priority for Governor Brian Kemp and Senate Republicans. The legislation aims to restore balance to Georgia’s civil justice system by curbing frivolous lawsuits that place undue burdens on small businesses, farmers, and job creators. By addressing litigation abuse, the reform seeks to protect Georgia’s economic vitality and uphold fairness in the courtroom. Kennedy framed the measure as a necessary step to ensure the legal system works for hardworking Georgians, not opportunistic actors.
Georgia Senator John F. Kennedy
| https://www.senate.ga.gov/senators/Documents/PrintBios/BioKennedyJohn852.pdf
Georgia lawmakers have approved a significant tort reform measure aimed at addressing the state’s designation as a "Judicial Hellhole," sending it to Governor Kemp for signature. In a press release, The American Tort Reform Association (ATRA) praised the legislature’s efforts, noting the potential to create a more balanced civil justice system in the state. ATRA President Tiger Joyce highlighted 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.
The Georgia Senate passed Senate Bill 68, a comprehensive tort reform measure sponsored by Kennedy on February 21. The bill aims to reduce excessive litigation, which Kennedy said has driven up costs for healthcare providers, businesses, and consumers. In a press release, he emphasized that since 2016, Georgia’s legal environment has worsened, contributing to its unfavorable reputation. Supporters believe the reforms will foster a fairer legal system and enhance the state’s business climate. Following the Senate vote, the bill moved to the House for consideration.
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 claims compensation and administrative costs affecting both businesses and consumers.
Senator John F. Kennedy was elected to the Georgia Senate in 2014 representing multiple counties including Crawford Monroe and parts of Bibb and Houston. He served as Governor Deal’s Floor Leader during his first term and was later elected Senate Majority Caucus Chairman for the 2017-2018 term. Kennedy currently serves as President Pro Tempore of the Senate.