Summerville, S.C. – State Senator Sean M. Bennett used a recent news conference to make a clear case that real tort reform must be a centerpiece of South Carolina’s affordability agenda. He argued that insurance premiums are a recurring, unavoidable expense for families, and that meaningful reform could free up money for groceries, utilities and other household needs.
Evidence from Neighboring States
Georgia’s House leaders reported more than $500 million in realized or anticipated insurance savings for 2026 after implementing litigation reforms. Rate reductions affected over 3.6 million policyholders across auto, home and business coverage. The state’s insurance commissioner highlighted that State Farm cut auto rates by more than 10 percent, translating to an estimated $400 million in annual savings. Travelers received approval for a 10.1 percent auto rate reduction, equating to roughly $40 million in statewide premium savings.
Florida has seen comparable results after its 2022‑2023 insurance and litigation reforms. In October, the state regulator reported that the five largest auto insurers – together covering 81 percent of the market – posted an average rate reduction of 12.6 percent for 2026.
Senator Bennett’s Position
“Comprehensive tort reform is the most consequential step our legislature can take to bring down the cost of this necessary household expense,” Bennett said. “Georgia and Florida show what is possible when states confront the legal costs built into insurance premiums. These are meaningful savings on bills that come due month after month.”
Bennett noted that South Carolina’s 2025 adjustments to joint‑and‑several liability and liquor liability were modest and fell short of the comprehensive changes needed to improve the state’s civil‑justice system. He warned that preserving a system that benefits a small group of litigants does nothing for families struggling to afford insurance.
Balancing Reform and Access to Courts
The senator emphasized that any reform must protect access to the courts and ensure fair compensation for injured parties while making liability more predictable and discouraging abusive litigation. He also called for stronger oversight of insurers to confirm that lower premiums actually reach policyholders.
“No single law determines every premium,” Bennett acknowledged, “but that is no excuse to leave avoidable costs embedded in a bill families have to pay.” He urged lawmakers to finish the job on tort reform if South Carolina is serious about affordability.
Implications for South Carolina Families
Lower insurance costs would directly benefit households across the Palmetto State, especially those on fixed incomes or with limited budgets. By reducing the legal expense component of premiums, the state could see a ripple effect: more disposable income for local businesses, higher consumer confidence, and a stronger overall economy.
Officials in Georgia and Florida credit lawsuit reform alongside regulatory actions, fraud prevention and market competition for the improvements. Bennett argued that South Carolina should adopt a similar blend of accountability, competition and consumer relief.
Next Steps
Senator Bennett plans to introduce legislation that expands on the 2025 adjustments, targeting joint‑and‑several liability, punitive damages caps and other mechanisms that drive up insurance costs. He invited fellow legislators, industry stakeholders and community members to join a working group aimed at drafting a comprehensive reform package.
The push for tort reform arrives as South Carolina continues to grapple with rising living costs. Bennett’s call aligns with broader efforts to keep the state affordable for families while preserving the legal protections that individuals need.
Original reporting: MyrtleBeachSC News — read the source article.
