Georgia Senate passes tort reform bill after heated debate
Tort reform in Georgia | Where does it stand?
Gov. Brian Kemp wants major changes to Georgia’s tort reform laws. He called it his top priority this legislative session. The state Senate passed the bill this afternoon after heated debate.
ATLANTA - Georgia state senators debated for about two hours before passing Senate Bill 68 on Friday.
Gov. Brian Kemp called tort reform his top priority this legislative session.
SEE ALSO: Gov. Kemp pushes for tort reform to combat rising insurance costs in Georgia
Why is Kemp calling for tort reform?
The backstory:
Gov. Brian Kemp said his tort reform package aims to stabilize insurance costs for businesses and consumers, level the playing field in civil court proceedings, increase transparency and fairness, and protect Georgians' rights. Kemp called it a "comprehensive and common sense package."
Why are Democrats opposed?
The other side:
Republicans and Democrats are at odds over what reforms are needed. Some opponents claim the bill addresses a problem that does not exist and would give more power to insurance companies. Senate Democrats have introduced their own tort reform bill, which they say better ensure equal footing.
How did the Senate vote go?
What we know:
Senators voted mostly along party lines. Sen. Emanuel Jones, D-Decatur, broke ranks with his Democratic colleagues and voted for the measure. Republican Sen. Colton Moore, R-Trenton, voted against it.
What's next:
The bill now goes to the House. Gov. Kemp has indicated that he is prepared to call a special session if state lawmakers don't pass a tort reform bill this session.
The Source: FOX 5's Deidra Dukes spoke with several Georgia lawmakers about the passage of SB 68 in the Senate. Other details were provided by proceedings in the Senate chamber.