State Representative John Carson of Georgia District 46 has expressed support for Governor Brian Kemp's recent signing of a tort reform package, describing it as a significant move towards balancing the judicial landscape in Georgia. Carson shared his views on social media platform X.
"On Monday, Governor Kemp signed SB 68 and SB 69, known as the Tort Reform Legislation," said Carson, Georgia State Representative from 46th District (R). "These bills aim to level the playing field in Georgia's courtrooms, stabilize insurance expenses for both businesses and consumers, ensure the protection of everyone's constitutional right to civil justice, and align Georgia more closely with the legal climates of neighboring states that we compete with for jobs and investment."
On April 21, Governor Kemp signed the comprehensive tort reform into law, which he described as a historic advancement in restoring fairness to Georgia’s civil justice system. The new legislation introduces changes including premises liability adjustments, transparency in medical damages, limitations on excessive jury awards, bifurcated trials, and restrictions on third-party litigation funding from foreign entities. Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones and House Speaker Jon Burns were among the legislative leaders who commended the bipartisan effort aimed at enhancing transparency and economic competitiveness. Kemp acknowledged both lawmakers and public backing for facilitating these reforms.
Rep. Carson's April 23 statement
| X.com
According to a press release by the American Tort Reform Association (ATRA), this legislative measure addresses Georgia's reputation as a "Judicial Hellhole." ATRA President Tiger Joyce said that the reforms aim to curb frivolous lawsuits and foster fairness within the legal system.
A poll conducted by Protecting American Consumers Together (PACT) revealed that 72% of Georgia voters believe lawsuit abuse contributes to rising costs of goods and services. The survey, carried out by Public Opinion Strategies from February 2-5, 2025, indicated strong bipartisan support for addressing lawsuit abuse to eliminate hidden consumer taxes. Furthermore, 82% of those who have engaged personal injury lawyers backed reforms to the current system.
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Institute for Legal Reform released a study indicating that escalating tort costs are financially burdening Georgian households by increasing insurance premiums and living expenses. In 2022 alone, these costs amounted to nearly $20 billion statewide.
Carson has been serving in the Georgia House of Representatives since 2011 and currently chairs the Retirement Committee while participating in several others such as Appropriations and Insurance. With expertise in finance as a CPA and founder of Armagh Capital, Carson has led significant legislative efforts including Georgia’s Hands-Free Law and an Anti-Semitism bill.