Peach Tree Times

Small business owners across Georgia gathered at the state Capitol for Small Business Day, hosted by NFIB and the Independent Insurance Agents of Georgia. The event focused on urging lawmakers to address lawsuit abuse in the state.

Key speakers included Insurance Commissioner John King, Public Service Commissioner Jason Shaw, and State Senator Martin Harbin. Governor Brian Kemp addressed attendees via a pre-recorded video message, encouraging support for 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," said NFIB State Director Hunter Loggins. "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."

Recently, the Senate Judiciary Committee advanced two reform measures to the full Senate:

Senate Bill 68 proposes limiting compensation for pain and suffering in injury cases and reducing special damages for medical bills to only what plaintiffs paid. It allows juries to determine responsibility and award amounts separately while protecting property owners from liability for uncontrollable criminal acts.

Senate Bill 69 introduces new regulations for outside groups funding lawsuits. These groups would need to register with the Department of Banking and Finance and would be prohibited from influencing plaintiffs on settlements. Additionally, it bans foreign governments 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 stated. “That’s why our members are urging their legislators to vote ‘yes’ on this important and long-overdue legislation.”