NFIB State Director Ben Homeyer today applauded state Senate leadership for their efforts to reach a compromise on legislation that would help small businesses by bringing clarity and fairness to South Carolina’s civil justice system.

S.244 was amended and approved on its second reading Wednesday night by a vote of 35-7. The bill is expected to receive its third and final reading in the Senate today before moving to the House.

“This is important legislation with strong advocates on both sides,” Homeyer said. “On behalf of our small business members, I want to thank Sen. Shane Massey and Senate leadership for working so hard and so late into the night on legislation that would curb lawsuit abuse, reduce insurance costs, and ensure that small businesses pay only their fair share in damages.

“S.244 puts in numerous protections for businesses that the current law does not,” Homeyer said. “It touches all manners of businesses in South Carolina, from bars and restaurants to construction to trucking fleets.

“You shouldn’t be targeted for a lawsuit simply because some trial lawyer thinks you have the deepest pockets,” he said. “Small businesses operate on thin margins, so the cost of defending itself against even a single frivolous claim could be enough to put a small business out of business.

“Our members are grateful to legislative leaders for recognizing the challenges small businesses face navigating the state’s civil justice system and hope for swift passage in the General Assembly,” Homeyer said.