Small business owners from throughout Georgia urged lawmakers to stop lawsuit abuse in the state during today’s Small Business Day at the Capitol, hosted by NFIB and the Independent Insurance Agents of Georgia.

Speakers included Insurance Commissioner John King, Public Service Commissioner Jason Shaw and state Sen. Martin Harbin, chair of the Government Oversite Committee and vice-chair of the Insurance and Labor Committee. Gov. Brian Kemp addressed the gathering in a pre-recorded video, urging attendees to support his tort reform package.

“Small businesses are the backbone of Georgia’s economy, but many local businesses are struggling under the weight of excessive litigation costs,” NFIB State Director Hunter Loggins said. “Governor Kemp’s tort reform package would help Main Street businesses focus on growth, job creation, and serving their communities instead of wasting time and money fighting unfair lawsuits.”

Last week, the Senate Judiciary Committee sent two reform measures to the full Senate for consideration:

• Senate Bill 68 would limit how much people can sue for pain and suffering in injury cases. It would also reduce special damages for medical bills to only what the plaintiff paid. It would let juries decide who is responsible and how much to award separately and protect property owners from liability for criminal acts outside their control.
• Senate Bill 69 would add new rules for outside groups that help fund lawsuits. It would require these groups to register with the Department of Banking and Finance and stop them from pressuring plaintiffs on when or how to settle a case. The bill also bans foreign governments and enemies from funding lawsuits.

“These changes will create a fairer, more predictable legal landscape that allows small businesses to operate with confidence, reinvest in their businesses, and create jobs without fear of being shut down by baseless legal claims,” Loggins said. “That’s why our members are urging their legislators to vote ‘yes’ on this important and long-overdue legislation.”