Gov. Henry McMaster and hundreds of supporters gathered in the Statehouse lobby to show support for a lawsuit reform package in South Carolina. The reform aims to change the state’s civil liability statutes, particularly joint and several liability laws. Under the current law, plaintiffs can seek damages from multiple defendants regardless of their level of fault. This has led insurance companies to raise rates, impacting the business community. The food, bar, and restaurant industry have especially felt the effects, with some forced to close due to high liquor liability insurance costs.
McMaster, along with other political leaders, emphasized the need to eliminate uncertainty in the state by reforming the liability laws. However, opponents, particularly in the legal community, have raised concerns about the bill. Some worry that it could favor insurance companies, delay claims, or make it harder for injured clients to receive compensation. Supporters argue that states with similar reforms have seen insurance rates decrease, while South Carolina’s rates continue to rise.
During McMaster’s public appearance, trial lawyers and other opponents in red t-shirts highlighted their opposition, sharing stories from states with tort reform. Despite these concerns, Senate debate on the legislation is ongoing. Proponents maintain that the civil justice system in South Carolina is broken and in need of reform. The bill, Senate Bill 244, has yet to face a hearing in the House.
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