A witness at the Texas Senate Committee on State Affairs said that Senate Bill 30 aims to halt fraudulent medical billing practices in personal injury lawsuits. This statement was made during a legislative hearing on March 31.
"Texas is taking a stand against lawsuit abuse. SB 30 puts an end to inflated medical damages and protects honest litigation," said Witness at Texas Senate Committee. "They bill whatever number they want to put down on a sheet of paper, and that is sent to the jury as if it's legitimate medical bills. The lawyers who do this kind of work tell their clients, do not use your health insurance because it limits your recovery in trial. When I say it's fraud, it is made up of medical damages for the purpose of inflating damages at trial."
Senate Bill 30 proposes significant changes to how damages are awarded in Texas civil lawsuits. It seeks to cap recoverable health care expenses at actual payments or 150% of market rates, tighten the evidentiary use of affidavits, and prohibit their use to prove causation. The bill also sets strict standards for awarding noneconomic damages, requiring unanimous jury findings, clear evidence linking injury to compensation, and court review for large awards. Additionally, it strengthens defendant protections through stricter affidavit deadlines, limits on provider testimony, and new disclosure requirements regarding third-party payors and attorney-provider financial ties.
According to a national poll conducted by Protecting American Consumers Together (PACT) in early 2025, 74% of voters believe that Congress and the Trump Administration should eliminate the hidden tax brought on by lawsuit abuse. This poll underscores public concern over the financial impact of excessive litigation on consumers.
The Texas Department of Insurance reports that the average cost of personal auto liability insurance in Texas increased by over 25% between 2018 and 2022. Factors contributing to rising premiums include increased medical claims and litigation costs. The department continues to monitor these trends to ensure consumer protection in the insurance marketplace.
Protecting American Consumers Together (PACT) is a 501(c)(4) advocacy and education organization focused on ending predatory personal injury practices. PACT advocates for fair legal processes and legislative reforms aimed at enhancing consumer protections and reducing costs caused by excessive litigation. The group operates at both state and federal levels, with recent efforts launched in Texas and Georgia.