Peach Tree Times

Governor Brian P. Kemp has signed Senate Bills 68 and 69 into law, marking significant progress in Georgia's civil justice system reforms aimed at preventing abusive legal practices. President Pro Tempore John F. Kennedy, representing the 18th Senate District, was instrumental in carrying the bills on behalf of Governor Kemp. These bills reflect the Governor's focus on tort reform as a legislative priority for 2025.

Senate Bill 68 includes changes to negligent security liability, apportionment of fault, and damages in civil cases to prevent frivolous lawsuits. Senator Kennedy emphasized the importance of these reforms, stating, “SB 68 cracks down on excessive and frivolous litigation to ensure that our legal system works for those who play by the rules, not those looking to exploit it."

Senate Bill 69, known as the Georgia Courts Access and Consumer Protection Act, complements SB 68 by regulating Third-Party Litigation Financing (TPLF). It mandates registration and public transparency of TPLF entities and prohibits foreign-affiliated financiers. “Alongside SB 68, SB 69 specifically cracks down on predatory litigation financers who seek to take advantage of unwary Georgia consumers,” Senator Kennedy noted.

The enactment of these bills asserts Georgia’s status as a favorable state for business. Both received substantial support from various stakeholders within Georgia’s business and legal communities. This legislation aims to make Georgia's economy more robust and competitive.

Senator John F. Kennedy can be contacted at (404) 656-6578 or via email at John.Kennedy@senate.ga.gov for additional information. For media inquiries, reach out to SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.