Leesa Hagan, state representative for Georgia's 156th House District, said that Georgia’s newly signed tort reform laws aim to protect families and businesses from lawsuit abuse, preserve fair access to justice, and help maintain the state's status as a top business destination. Hagan made her statement in a post on X.
"SIGNED INTO LAW: Georgia Republicans passed smart reforms to curb lawsuit abuse, protect families & businesses, and keep Georgia #1 for business—while preserving fair access to justice for all," said Leesa Hagen, State Representative (GA-156).
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 addresses various legal reforms, including premises liability, medical damages transparency, curbing excessive jury awards, bifurcated trials, and limits on third-party litigation funding—particularly from hostile foreign actors. Key sponsors and legislative leaders such as Lieutenant Governor 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 citizen support across Georgia for realizing the long-overdue reform.
Hagen's April 21 statment
| X.com
According to the American Tort Reform Association (ATRA), Georgia lawmakers have approved a significant tort reform measure addressing the state’s designation as a "judicial hellhole," which has been signed into law by Governor Kemp. In a press release, ATRA said that the legislature's efforts now present an opportunity to create a more balanced civil justice system in the state. ATRA President Tiger Joyce said the reforms target issues contributing to Georgia’s negative legal reputation. The measure is seen as a step toward reducing frivolous lawsuits and improving fairness in the state’s courts.
Protecting American Consumers Together (PACT) released a poll on February 7, 2025, finding that 72% of Georgia voters believe lawsuit abuse contributes to rising costs of goods and services. The survey conducted by Public Opinion Strategies from February 2–5, 2025, revealed bipartisan agreement across Republicans (88%), independents (64%), and Democrats (62%). Additionally, 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, impacting insurance premiums and overall living costs. In 2022, the state’s tort costs reached nearly $20 billion, averaging over $2,000 per household. These expenses stem from civil litigation, claim compensation, and administrative costs affecting both businesses and consumers.
Hagan serves Georgia’s 156th District with experience in education, small business management, and local civic leadership. A former teacher and SEO entrepreneur actively engaged in her community and church activities; she previously chaired the Toombs County Republican Party. Since her election in 2021, she has taken key roles in several House committees focusing on rural development, transportation, education, and small business growth.