ISSUE: South Carolina's outdated civil justice system imposes a significant financial burden on businesses, individuals, and non-profits often for lawsuits where their connection is minimal. This results in increased insurance premiums, reduced coverage availability, and makes businesses targets for litigation simply due to their perceived financial resources. South Carolina's tort costs are estimated to be $3,734 per household each year, and the state ranks among the top 10 for highest tort costs as a percentage of GDP in the Country.

SOLUTION: Senate Bill 244 offers meaningful tort reform that will repair South Carolina's flawed civil justice system, boost the state's economic competitiveness, and uphold its values.

WHAT DOES SENATE BILL 244 DO?

ACCOUNTABILITY: This bill ensures accountability by holding individuals and businesses responsible only for the damages they directly cause, preventing them from being unfairly burdened with the consequences of others' actions. It does not, however, shield wrongdoers from the consequences of their own behavior.

TORT TAX: By reducing frivolous lawsuits, this bill will help lower insurance premiums and overall costs for both businesses and consumers. It will also make homeownership and construction more affordable by enforcing reasonable time limits for filing construction defect claims.

PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY: This bill strengthens personal responsibility by closing loopholes that allow blame to be shifted unfairly to those with minimal involvement.

OWNER RESPONSIBILITY: The bill maintains accountability for alcohol-related incidents while preventing overreach. Bars and restaurants will be liable ONLY when selling alcohol to visibly intoxicated individuals or minors, ensuring fairness while still protecting victims.

CLARITY: This bill establishes clear guidelines and timelines for insurance carriers to offer policy limits, protecting them from bad faith accusations. This addresses a practice that often pressures insurers into premature settlements, preventing cases from going to trial when they should.

The time to act is now.  Speak up and tell the Senate Judiciary Committee that South Carolina businesses and families need solutions not excuses.

Specifically, tell them that you support S.244. The earlier the Senate moves the more time the House has to act to move this bill for the Governor’s signature.

CONTACT THE COMMITTEE