Gov. Brian P. Kemp, joined by other state leaders, hosted small business leaders for a roundtable that addressed civil litigation policies and their effects on Georgia businesses and consumers. It was the first of three roundtable listening sessions to explore the topic.

According to a press release, Kemp organized the sessions, announced earlier this month, to bring together Georgia stakeholders and inform policy proposals in the upcoming legislative session. The first session took place on August 22.

"A little over a year ago, I announced my intention to work toward common-sense lawsuit reform while still bringing jobs to Georgia and maintaining our position as the No. 1 state for business," Kemp stated in the press release. "We took the first meaningful steps on that issue this past session through the Data Analysis for Tort Reform Act. As we move forward, I want to thank the legislature and those from around the state who have been engaged on this issue as we work together to address this growing problem."

The Data Analysis for Tort Reform Act, sponsored by Kemp’s Floor Leader Rep. Will Wade, established a mechanism to collect information needed to guide the initiative’s next steps. In addition, both chambers of the General Assembly worked on civil litigation bills in 2024. These include S.B. 426 and S.B. 83.

At the session, Kemp stressed in his opening remarks that all sides of the lawsuit reform issue will be able to provide feedback and contribute to the process. The session went on to address topics such as the impact of Georgia’s civil litigation climate on insurance rates and prices Georgians pay.

"Georgia's legal environment poses significant challenges for businesses and consumers, leading to uncertainty and increased costs," said Will Wilson of the Independent Insurance Agents of Georgia. "As an independent insurance agent, I witness firsthand how the burden of excessive litigation drives up insurance premiums and hinders businesses' ability to thrive and innovate."