John Kennedy, the state senator for Georgia's 18th District, said that Governor Brian Kemp's signing of new tort reform legislation is a proud moment that will benefit Georgians statewide. He shared this sentiment in a post on X.
"Hardworking Georgians from small business owners and healthcare providers to families and consumers joined us at the Capitol as Governor Kemp signed historic tort reform into law today," said John F. Kennedy, Georgia State Senator from 18th District (R). "I'm proud of this legislation and the impact it will have on Georgians across the state!"
On April 21, Governor Kemp signed a comprehensive tort reform package into law, describing it as a historic step toward restoring fairness and balance to Georgia’s civil justice system. The legislation includes reforms on premises liability, medical damages transparency, limiting excessive jury awards, bifurcated trials, and restrictions on third-party litigation funding, particularly from hostile foreign entities. According to key lawmakers such as Lt. Gov. Burt Jones and Speaker Jon Burns, the bipartisan effort aims at transparency, fairness, and boosting Georgia's economic competitiveness. Kemp credited the collaboration of lawmakers and public support for making the long-awaited reform possible.
Kennedy's April 21 statement
| X.com
Georgia lawmakers recently passed significant tort reform measures to address the state’s designation as a "Judicial Hellhole." The American Tort Reform Association (ATRA) praised these reforms for their potential to create a more balanced civil justice system in Georgia. ATRA President Tiger Joyce emphasized that the measures target issues contributing to the state’s negative legal reputation by aiming to reduce frivolous lawsuits and improve fairness in the courts.
On February 7, 2025, Protecting American Consumers Together (PACT) released a poll indicating that 72% of Georgia voters believe lawsuit abuse contributes to rising costs of goods and services. The survey showed strong bipartisan support—88% of Republicans, 64% of Independents, and 62% of Democrats agreed with this sentiment. Conducted by Public Opinion Strategies from February 2-5, the poll also found that 85% of voters consider it important for the Legislature to address lawsuit abuse to eliminate hidden taxes on consumers. Furthermore, 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 an increasing financial burden on households by driving up insurance premiums and overall living costs. In 2022, the state’s tort costs totaled nearly $20 billion, averaging over $2,000 per household. These expenses stem from civil litigation claims compensation and administrative costs impacting both businesses and consumers.
Senator John F. Kennedy was elected to the Georgia Senate in 2014 representing several 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.