Peach Tree Times

Today, the Georgia Senate approved Senate Bill 68, a comprehensive reform of the state's tort laws. The bill was sponsored by Senate President Pro Tempore John F. Kennedy from Macon.

"SB 68 is a major step toward reining in the excessive litigation that is driving up costs for healthcare providers, job creators, and consumers," said Sen. Kennedy. He highlighted that since 2016, litigation costs have increased by 7.1% annually according to estimates from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, surpassing inflation rates. "Nuclear verdicts and frivolous lawsuits cost Georgia households an average of $5,035 annually. This broken system cannot continue."

Senator Kennedy further elaborated on the broader impacts of rising litigation costs: "The consequences of excessive litigation extend far beyond the courtroom." He pointed out that small business owners face challenges such as laying off employees or closing due to increased liability insurance premiums. Additionally, pregnant women in rural areas must travel long distances to access OB-GYN services because local hospitals have shut down under financial pressure. "When healthcare providers leave the state due to an unpredictable legal climate, entire communities suffer," he added.

Kennedy sponsored SB 68 on behalf of Governor Brian P. Kemp, who prioritized tort reform during his State of the State address at the start of this legislative session.

For more details about SB 68 and its implications, interested parties are encouraged to review the full text of the legislation.

Senator John F. Kennedy serves as President Pro Tempore of the Georgia State Senate and represents several counties including Crawford, Monroe, Peach, Upson as well as parts of Bibb and Houston counties.