Georgia's recent tort reform legislation has been highlighted as a significant advancement in creating a more equitable legal environment for providers involved in litigation. Jason Bring, a partner at Arnall Golden Gregory LLP, emphasized this point in a blog post.
"The legislation is a great step forward in leveling the playing field for providers in litigation," said Bring.
According to McKnight’s Senior Living, Georgia lawmakers have passed Senate Bill 68 and Senate Bill 69. These bills aim to clarify premises liability standards, limit excessive jury awards, and allow bifurcated trials to streamline legal proceedings. The measures are anticipated to alleviate legal burdens, reduce frivolous lawsuits, and enhance Georgia's appeal as a sustainable location for senior living operators. The legislation is designed to protect care providers, maintain access to care, and ensure fairness in litigation while strengthening the long-term care sector by improving legal predictability and reducing unnecessary costs.
The American Tort Reform Association (ATRA) released a statement noting that Georgia lawmakers have approved a significant tort reform measure aimed at addressing the state's reputation as a "Judicial Hellhole." This measure has been sent to Governor Brian Kemp for his signature. ATRA President Tiger Joyce remarked that these reforms address issues contributing to Georgia's negative legal standing and represent progress toward reducing frivolous lawsuits and enhancing fairness within the state's courts.
On February 7, 2025, Protecting American Consumers Together (PACT) released poll results indicating that 72% of Georgia voters believe lawsuit abuse contributes to rising costs of goods and services. The poll demonstrated bipartisan agreement on this issue with substantial support across political affiliations. Conducted by Public Opinion Strategies from February 2-5, 2025, the survey also revealed that 85% of voters deem it important for the Legislature to tackle lawsuit abuse to eliminate hidden taxes on consumers. Furthermore, 82% of individuals who have engaged personal injury lawyers favor reforms to the current system.
A study published by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Institute for Legal Reform on January 24 reported that increasing tort costs in Georgia are imposing a growing financial burden on households by driving up insurance premiums and overall living expenses. In 2022, the state's tort costs approached $20 billion, averaging over $2,000 per household. These expenses arise from civil litigation, claim compensation, and administrative costs affecting both businesses and consumers.
Jason Bring is recognized as an industry leader at Arnall Golden Gregory LLP where he leads the Healthcare Litigation Team and co-chairs the Post-Acute & Long-Term Care industry group. He represents nursing homes, hospitals, and hospices in various legal matters including litigation and government investigations.