The Citizen announced on X that it reported on new tort reform laws signed by Governor Brian Kemp, noting that Senate Bill (SB) 68 and SB 69 could help curb lawsuit abuse in Georgia.
According to The Citizen, these bills were signed into law by Georgia Governor Brian Kemp to address what state leaders describe as "lawsuit abuse" affecting both consumers and small businesses. The editorial highlights that the legislation is intended to limit excessive liability claims and curb opportunistic litigation practices. Guest columnist Peter Pfeifer emphasized that the reforms will help rebalance the civil justice system and provide relief to industries frequently targeted by lawsuits.
As reported by the Georgia Public Policy Foundation, SB 68 introduces disclosure requirements for third-party litigation funding and aims to regulate misleading legal advertising that may solicit individuals into mass tort litigation. SB 69 adjusts premises liability laws by raising evidentiary standards in cases where crimes committed by third parties are used as the basis for lawsuits against property owners. These legislative changes are expected to reduce insurance costs and minimize the risk exposure of Georgia businesses.
According to reporting by Capitol Beat News Service, the passage of SB 68 and SB 69 came after extensive debate in the Georgia Legislature, with backing from business groups who argued that lawsuit abuse was undermining the state’s economic competitiveness. The bills were supported by the Georgia Chamber of Commerce and other industry associations. Proponents assert the reforms will promote judicial efficiency and reduce frivolous claims that drive up the cost of doing business.
According to its website, The Citizen is a community news outlet based in Fayette County, Georgia, covering a wide range of topics including local governance, public policy, and state legislation. The publication provides in-depth coverage and opinion pieces on political and legal developments that impact its readership. The Citizen also publishes contributions from guest columnists and policy experts to provide broader context on civic issues.