Peach Tree Times

Last week, a vote was cast against Senate Bill 68 by a representative who expressed strong opposition to the legislation. The representative stated that the bill is "nothing short of an attack on the people of Georgia," arguing that it prioritizes corporate interests over victims and shields negligent businesses from accountability.

A particular concern highlighted was Section 6 of SB 68, which according to the representative, "protects wrongdoers while punishing victims." The section reportedly restricts access to justice for those in need, including survivors of drunk driving accidents, human trafficking, workplace injuries, medical negligence, and corporate recklessness. It allegedly limits damages and complicates fair compensation for victims while benefiting insurance companies and large corporations.

The representative emphasized their stance: "I refuse to stand by while justice is put up for sale. I refuse to allow Georgia to become a state where the powerful walk away untouched while victims are left to suffer in silence."

Several reasons were provided for opposing SB 68:

- Protection of negligent businesses leaving victims powerless

- Stripping away constitutional rights of juries

- Allowing corporations to profit without consequence

- Empowering insurance companies to deny or devalue claims

- Hurting families affected by preventable events

The representative made it clear that SB 68 does not lower insurance premiums or prevent excessive lawsuits but instead hinders victims' ability to seek justice. They described it as "nothing more than a corporate handout."

In a cautionary note addressed to supporters of the bill, they warned: "If you think this bill won’t affect you, wait until you or someone you love becomes a victim."

Concluding their statement, they affirmed their decision: "I stand firm in my decision to vote ‘no’ on SB 68. I stand with the people of Georgia, and I will continue to fight for fairness, accountability and justice."

"Justice is not for sale," they reiterated as their reason for voting against SB 68.