Two bills that are Ga. Gov. Brian Kemp’s (R) call for reforms to the state’s tort laws are advancing during the current legislative session.
The state Senate has approved SB 68 and SB 69. Among the provisions in SB 68 is one limiting owners’ liability for injuries on their property and placing restrictions on damages awarded for medical bills to what was paid by the plaintiff. SB 69 places regulations on third-party litigation financing.
The Georgia Chamber of Commerce immediately supported both pieces of legislation, SB 69 in particular.
“Georgia’s need for SB 69 is clear. In addition to safeguarding our families, businesses, and overall economic competitiveness, this bill will enhance our national security by preventing hostile foreign entities from exploiting Georgia’s courtrooms for their own harmful agendas,” said Chris Clark, President & CEO of the Georgia Chamber, in a news release affirming their support. “We look forward to working with the leaders of the Georgia State House to do right by Georgians and get both SB 68 and SB 69 signed into law so our courts can focus on justice, not jackpots.”
Angie Cox, President and CEO of the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce, told ABD her office put the question to Chamber members in the form of a survey.
“We sent out an email, and it listed all the different sections of each bill and sliding scale of one to five, one strongly opposed, five strongly support, three neutral,” she explained. “We’ve had over 150 responses to that survey. That’s a great representation of our membership. And overwhelmingly, it was either strongly support or support. There were less than 10 that strongly opposed or opposed any portion of the bills.”
Cox cautioned that passage of the bills is unlikely to lower existing premiums, however, it should lure additional insurance providers to Georgia.
“It will be able to attract some of the carriers back into the marketplace,” she explained. “They used Florida as an example. About 18 months after their tort reform bill was passed, they had eight new carriers come back into the market that had previously left because of the vast amounts of settlements, etc. When you have more carriers in the marketplace, then that makes it more competitive.”
The Augusta Chamber and the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce have both signed a letter drafted by the state Chamber supporting the measures.
Columbia County’s letter of support reminded legislators that it had identified tort reform as one of their priorities during the 2025 legislative session.
“We endorse tort reform measures that mitigate excessive litigation, streamline legal processes, and provide businesses with a predictable and just legal environment,” read the letter in part. “Our support for tort reform is crucial to building a business climate where innovation and growth can flourish. This issue is of high importance to our Chamber and the business community we represent.”
Both pieces of legislation were sent to the House of Representatives for consideration.
