In a strong show of support for Gov. Brian P. Kemp’s proposed healthcare liability reform initiatives, more than 100 hospital leaders and clinical staff from across the state, along with members of Georgia’s business community, joined him Thursday for a press conference at the Capitol as he revealed his much-anticipated legislative tort reform package.

During the conference, Gov. Kemp highlighted several initiatives that will improve access to care for Georgians. The legislation will provide for “truth in damages,” meaning juries will now see actual costs related to healthcare services received by a plaintiff. The package also eliminates “anchoring,” allowing juries to decide on a fair payment for pain and suffering, without being influenced by an attorney who may present an excessive amount. These reforms will help ensure that award amounts are not highly inflated beyond what is fair for both patients and providers.

“The Georgia Hospital Association and our member hospitals are extremely appreciative of Gov. Kemp, Lt. Gov. Burt Jones, and Speaker Jon Burns for their work to develop this important legislation that will enhance access to high-quality care,” said GHA President and CEO Caylee Noggle. “Healthcare providers deserve to feel safe practicing in our state, and Georgians deserve access to safe, affordable care. We are confident that this bill package will support that goal, and we are proud to advocate for the passage of this legislation on behalf of our more than 150 hospital members.”

Gov. Kemp emphasized his desire for the bill package to strike a balance by protecting Georgians’ right to justice while ensuring a fair process for all involved. Without healthcare liability reform, Georgia’s legal environment makes it harder to recruit and retain physicians, especially in rural areas and specialized fields of medicine. GHA supports this effort to help ensure Georgia is a state where providers feel safe to practice.