SCCJC Calls for More Civil Justice Reform
SCCJC Appreciates Governor’s Comments in State of the State Message

Members of the South Carolina Civil Justice Coalition, the South Carolina business organization that is fighting for comprehensive civil justice reform expressed appreciation for Governor Mark Sanford’s recognition of the positive impacts that tort and workers’ compensation reforms have had on improving our business climate.

“We are very motivated by Governor Sanford’s words in his State of the State message Jan. 14. We agree that comprehensive civil justice reform is a critical issue,” said Lee Bussell, Chairman of the South Carolina Civil Justice Coalition.

“Unfortunately, since South Carolina passed tort reform in 2005 our lawsuit climate has fallen into the bottom 10 once again,” said Cam Crawford, SC Civil Justice Coalition Executive Director. In March 2008, the United States Chamber of Commerce released its annual Lawsuit Climate report that ranked South Carolina 43rd in the nation.

“The reality is, in tough economic times, every South Carolina small business is just one lawsuit away from going out of business since our legislature has not enacted reasonable limits on damage awards,” said Crawford.

He added “Frivolous lawsuits cost our state jobs. It cost more to defend a frivolous lawsuit than to pay the average worker’s wages for a year.”

“With the support of our Governor, legislature and business community, we can create a stable and predictable legal environment in South Carolina, helping us retain jobs and compete for new investments,” said Chairman Bussell.

The South Carolina Civil Justice Coalition will be pushing for comprehensive civil justice reform in 2009.