Wisconsin State Legislature Passes Lawsuit Abuse Reform
The Wisconsin State Legislature has recently received praise from the trucking industry for implementing a sensible reform in the state's civil litigation system. This reform involves capping non-economic damage awards at $1 million, which the industry believes is crucial in maintaining fairness and balance in civil litigation. By limiting these subjective, nonmonetary losses, the industry aims to discourage abusive and frivolous lawsuits that have turned the system into a lucrative profit center for the plaintiffs' bar.
Chris Spear, the President and CEO of American Trucking Associations, emphasized the negative impact of turning civil litigation into a game of 'jackpot justice' by the plaintiffs' bar. He highlighted that the costs of such practices are ultimately borne by everyone, including trucking companies and consumers who face higher insurance rates and prices for everyday goods. Spear expressed that this reform promotes justice and fairness as the driving forces behind accident litigation outcomes rather than profits.
The legislation, known as SB 613, was approved by the State Assembly through a voice vote and by the State Senate with a 21-11 majority. It is now awaiting Governor Tony Evers' signature.
Wisconsin's trucking industry plays a significant role in providing middle-class jobs, with around 183,780 individuals employed in the sector across the state.
