NFIB today praised Gov. Henry McMaster for signing House Bill 3430, a pivotal tort reform bill that marks the beginning of a broader effort to modernize and balance South Carolina’s civil justice system.

The newly signed legislation includes reforms to the state’s joint and several liability laws, which have long exposed small businesses, particularly bars, restaurants, and music venues, to excessive legal and financial risk in lawsuits. It also addresses liquor liability insurance, an issue that has led to skyrocketing premiums and instability in the insurance market.

“This is a meaningful step forward in the fight to fix South Carolina’s broken liability system,” NFIB State Director Ben Homeyer said. “For too long, small business owners have been vulnerable to lawsuits that assign disproportionate blame and financial responsibility. House Bill 3430 begins to correct that imbalance.”

Homeyer emphasized that while the bill represents real progress, it is only the beginning of a much-needed effort to achieve comprehensive tort reform in the Palmetto State.

“This legislation lays the foundation for broader changes that are still desperately needed,” he said. “NFIB is committed to working with lawmakers in 2026 and beyond to end lawsuit abuse and build a fairer, more predictable legal environment for small businesses.”