What happened: Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp has signed into law Senate Bills (SB) 68 and 69—comprehensive tort reform measures aimed at curbing lawsuit abuse. Meanwhile in Texas, similar reforms are advancing through SB 30 by Sen. Charles Schwertner and SB 39 by Sen. Brian Birdwell, each of which has passed the Texas Senate and awaits consideration in the Texas House.

Tell me more: Both SB 30 and SB 39 are among Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick’s priority bills for the 2025 Texas Legislative Session. They are being shepherded through the House by Appropriations Chairman Greg Bonnen and Judiciary Chairman Jeff Leach. 

Why it matters: A vast majority of Texans believe lawsuit abuse is a key factor driving up the price of goods and services and want their legislators to take action to fix the system.

• A recent survey found that 86% of likely Texas voters support medical cost transparency in lawsuits, 79% say legal reform is critical to sustaining the state’s economic growth and 67% say lawsuit abuse drives up everyday costs.

TLR Thoughts: TLR applauds Gov. Kemp and Georgia lawmakers for delivering a comprehensive tort reform package that will restore balance to the state’s civil justice system. Texas has a vital opportunity this session to pass and enact meaningful reforms through SB 30 and SB 39 that will help stabilize insurance markets, rein in meritless lawsuits and preserve Texans’ access to the courts. TLR, alongside the Lone Star Economic Alliance (LSEA), is urging Texas lawmakers to act without delay.

Read the full article here.