Brian Kemp, Governor of Georgia, announced that the newly signed tort reform laws will prioritize job creators and hardworking Georgians by restoring fairness in courtrooms. "Governor Kemp shared that statement in a post on X."
"SB 68 and 69 put job creators and hardworking Georgians first by leveling the playing field in our courtrooms and ensuring Georgia remains the best place to live, work, and raise a family," said Kemp. "Today I'm proud to sign these bills into law!"
On April 21, Kemp signed a comprehensive tort reform package into law, describing it as a historic step toward restoring fairness and balance in Georgia’s civil justice system. The legislation introduces reforms to premises liability, medical damages transparency, curbing excessive jury awards, implementing bifurcated trials, and limiting third-party litigation funding from foreign adversaries. Key legislative leaders, including Lt. Gov. Burt Jones and Speaker Jon Burns, commended the bipartisan effort aimed at enhancing transparency, fairness, and economic competitiveness. Kemp credited the collaboration of lawmakers and the support of Georgians for facilitating this long-overdue reform.
Governor Kemp's April 21 statement
| X.com
Georgia lawmakers have approved a significant tort reform measure targeting the state’s designation as a "Judicial Hellhole." According to the American Tort Reform Association (ATRA), these reforms have the potential to create a more balanced civil justice system. ATRA President Tiger Joyce said that the reforms address issues contributing to Georgia’s negative legal reputation and represent a step toward reducing frivolous lawsuits and improving fairness in the state’s 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 revealed bipartisan agreement: 88% of Republicans, 64% of Independents, and 62% of Democrats expressed support for addressing lawsuit abuse. Conducted by Public Opinion Strategies from February 2-5, 2025, the poll also found that 85% of voters consider it important for the Legislature to tackle lawsuit abuse to eliminate hidden taxes on consumers. Additionally, 82% of individuals who have used personal injury lawyers favor 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 increasingly burdening households by driving up insurance premiums and overall living expenses. In 2022, the state's tort costs reached nearly $20 billion, averaging over $2,000 per household. These costs stem from civil litigation, claim compensation, and administrative expenses affecting both businesses and consumers.
Brian Kemp is originally from Athens, Georgia. Before becoming governor in 2019 as the state's 83rd leader, he built his career as a small business owner. Throughout his tenure as governor, Kemp has focused on economic growth with Georgia setting records in jobs and investments during his first term. His decision to reopen the economy early during the pandemic significantly contributed to the state's financial success.