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Georgia Senate Advances Lawsuit-Limiting Bill After Kemp Strikes Deal

ATLANTA — Georgia senators have pushed forward a key piece of legislation aimed at restricting lawsuits, marking a significant win for Governor Brian Kemp. But the victory didn’t come without political maneuvering. Kemp had to make a concession to his own party to lock in enough support, highlighting the delicate balance of power within Georgia’s Republican-controlled legislature.

Kemp’s Legal Overhaul Gains Traction

In a 33-21 vote on Friday, the Senate backed Senate Bill 68, one of Kemp’s top priorities. The bill is designed to tighten legal standards for property owners facing injury-related lawsuits, limit attorney fee recoveries, and streamline case dismissals to cut down on costly pretrial proceedings.

Republicans supporting the measure argue that it will bring stability to Georgia’s legal system and reduce costs for businesses, healthcare providers, and consumers. Senate President Pro Tem John Kennedy, a Macon Republican and the bill’s lead sponsor, framed it as a move to “balance our civil justice system.”

The legislation now heads to the state House, where further debate is expected. A separate bill that would limit third-party funding of lawsuits has yet to reach the Senate floor.

Georgia State Capitol Senate Chamber

What’s Changing in Georgia’s Legal Landscape?

If passed, the bill would introduce several key changes:

  • Higher legal thresholds for holding property owners liable for injuries.
  • A ban on attorneys collecting fees twice for the same case.
  • A provision allowing separate trials for assigning fault and awarding damages.
  • An expedited process for dismissing cases deemed baseless.

Supporters argue that these measures will prevent frivolous lawsuits and curb legal costs. Critics, however, say the bill tilts the scales too far in favor of businesses, making it harder for injured individuals to seek fair compensation.

Republican Infighting and Kemp’s Concession

Despite a Republican majority, the bill wasn’t a guaranteed success. Some GOP senators were hesitant, forcing Kemp to negotiate behind the scenes. The exact nature of his concession remains unclear, but it was enough to secure the votes needed to move the bill forward.

This internal wrangling reflects broader tensions within the party, as some lawmakers worry about limiting legal avenues for constituents. While Kemp’s allies frame the bill as a pro-business measure, opponents within the GOP argue it could alienate working-class voters who rely on the courts for justice.

Opposition and the Road Ahead

Democrats and trial attorneys have strongly opposed the bill, arguing that it favors corporate interests at the expense of everyday Georgians. They warn that restricting legal claims could leave victims of negligence without recourse.

“The governor is siding with big businesses over the people of Georgia,” said Senate Minority Leader Gloria Butler, a Democrat from Stone Mountain. “This bill makes it harder for injured people to get justice.”

The battle now moves to the House, where similar debates are expected. Given the strong lobbying efforts on both sides, the final version of the bill could see further revisions before a potential signing into law by Kemp.

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