Georgia House Passes Bill on Gov. Kemp’s Key Legislative Issue of Tort Reforms

Overview

The Georgia House of Representatives has narrowly passed a bill that addresses one of Governor Brian Kemp’s top legislative priorities – tort reforms. The bill aims to limit the amount of damages that can be awarded in civil lawsuits, a move that has been met with both support and criticism.

What is the Bill About?

• The bill, known as HB 149, seeks to cap non-economic damages in medical malpractice cases at $250,000.
• It also includes provisions for limiting punitive damages and implementing stricter standards for expert witnesses in court cases.
• The goal of the bill is to reduce the number of frivolous lawsuits and lower insurance costs for businesses and healthcare providers.

Controversy and Debate

The passing of the bill has sparked heated debates among lawmakers, with supporters arguing that it will improve the state’s business climate and opponents claiming it will limit access to justice for victims of medical malpractice.

Narrow Passage in the House

The bill passed in the House with a vote of 99-69, with several Republicans joining Democrats in opposition. This narrow margin highlights the contentious nature of the issue and the potential challenges the bill may face in the Senate.

Next Steps

The bill will now move to the Senate for consideration, where it is expected to face further debate and potential amendments. If passed, it will then go to Governor Kemp for final approval.

Key Takeaways

• The Georgia House has passed a bill that aims to limit damages in civil lawsuits, a top priority for Governor Brian Kemp.
• The bill has sparked controversy and debate among lawmakers, with supporters claiming it will improve the business climate and opponents arguing it will limit access to justice.
• The bill will now move to the Senate for consideration and potential amendments before reaching Governor Kemp for final approval.

In summary, the passing of this bill in the Georgia House is a significant step towards implementing tort reforms in the state, but it is likely to face further challenges and debates before becoming law.