Why Is the Latest Tort Reform Bill Bad for the Working Class?

 Posted on April 04, 2025 in Personal Injury

In March 2025, Georgia’s House of Representatives passed a governor-backed tort reform bill, Senate Bill 68, with a single-vote margin. This bill claims to improve litigation balance in the state court system and protect businesses and customers from excessive lawsuits that increase costs for both.

If bills like this pass in other states across the country, it could impede your ability to access the courts for tort claims, including in personal injury cases like motor vehicle accidents or wrongful death. If you have concerns about tort reform and what it could mean for the citizens of Colorado, you can speak with a Larimer County, CO personal injury attorney today.

What Are the Implications of Senate Bill 68?

To understand the possible implications for Colorado or any state, consider the changes the bill made to Georgia’s tort laws:

• Discouraging legitimate claims: New rules for filing lawsuits make it more challenging for someone to seek legal assistance, leaving victims fewer avenues to justice.

• Capping damages: Placing a cap on noneconomic damages, such as pain and suffering, makes it harder to receive adequate compensation.

• Limiting evidence: Making the evidence requirements stricter limits your ability to prove losses that you should be able to recover.

• Complicating accountability: The bill creates more hurdles in the procedural process, such as limiting certain claims, which restrict your ability to hold the negligent party accountable.

• Convoluting the trial process: The bill separates trials into phases that can make the litigation process unnecessarily complex and put the victims at a disadvantage.

Everyone should have the right to be compensated after suffering physical, mental, or emotional injuries at the hands of a negligent or malicious party. Legislation like Senate Bill 68 threatens that right, aiming to restrict it significantly.

What Are the Arguments Against This Bill?

When Georgia’s governor announced his plan to tackle tort reform, democratic lawmakers in the state immediately expressed disappointment. They argue that the points of change within the bill will make it hard for Georgians to pursue justice, particularly because it limits the liability businesses have for injuries incurred on their property. According to one state representative, the average Georgian will not benefit from the bill.

Supporters of Senate Bill 68 use misleading descriptions, arguing that it will protect consumers and legal processes and stabilize the cost of insurance. Realistically, it will be easier for insurance companies to deny claims, delay victims who seek justice, and protect negligent companies from facing accountability.

Contact a Fort Collins, CO Personal Injury Tort Attorney for a Free Consultation

At Hoggatt Law Office, P.C., we understand the value of tort law for civilians and how the ability to recover damages under devastating circumstances can make a life-changing impact on many. Tort reform like Senate Bill 68 is anti-conservative, grossly limiting access to the courts and harming the working class. If you have questions about your right to file a tort claim, a Larimer County, CO personal injury lawyer is available to help. Call 970-225-2190 today to schedule a free consultation.