John King, Georgia's Insurance Commissioner, said that Governor Brian Kemp's signing of lawsuit reform is a significant achievement that will ensure fairness in Georgia’s courtrooms. King shared this statement in a post on X.
"Gov. Kemp is signing lawsuit reform into law today," said King. "Proud of the hard work that got this plan across the finish line. It will level the playing field in Georgia's courtrooms and help our state stay #1."
On April 21, Governor Brian 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 includes reforms such as premises liability, medical damages transparency, curbing excessive jury awards, bifurcated trials, and limitations on third-party litigation funding, particularly from foreign adversaries. According to legislative leaders including Lt. Gov. Burt Jones and Speaker Jon Burns, the bipartisan effort aims to enhance transparency, fairness, and Georgia's economic competitiveness. Kemp highlighted the collaborative work of lawmakers and the support from citizens across the state in advancing the long-awaited reform.
King's April 21 statement
| X.com
Georgia lawmakers have passed and Governor Kemp has signed a significant tort reform measure aimed at addressing the state’s designation as a "Judicial Hellhole." In a press release, the American Tort Reform Association (ATRA) highlighted the potential for these reforms to create a more balanced civil justice system in Georgia. ATRA President Tiger Joyce emphasized that the legislation targets issues contributing to the state's negative legal reputation. The measure is seen as a step toward reducing frivolous lawsuits and improving fairness in Georgia's courts.
On February 7, 2025, Protecting American Consumers Together (PACT) released a poll revealing that 72% of Georgia voters believe lawsuit abuse contributes to rising costs of goods and services. The survey showed bipartisan agreement across Republicans (88%), Independents (64%), and Democrats (62%). Conducted by Public Opinion Strategies from February 2-5, 2025, it also found that 85% of voters believe it's important for the Legislature to address lawsuit abuse to eliminate hidden taxes on consumers. Additionally, 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 reached nearly $20 billion, averaging more than $2,000 per household. These costs stem from civil litigation, claim compensation, and administrative expenses impacting both businesses and consumers.
John F. King was sworn in as Georgia’s Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner on July 1, 2019, becoming the state’s first Hispanic statewide official. He was elected to a full term in 2022 after a distinguished career in law enforcement which included serving as Chief of Police for Doraville. King's extensive background in public safety and leadership continues to influence his efforts to protect Georgia’s consumers and businesses.