Texans for Lawsuit Reform announced that Texas, once a leader in lawsuit reform, now lags while states such as Florida and Georgia have passed measures aimed at lowering costs.Â
According to an X post from Texans for Lawsuit Reform, the group promoted an op-ed by CEO Ryan Patrick published in the Houston Chronicle. Patrick states that Texas was once a national model for curbing lawsuit abuse but is now slipping as premiums climb and the legislature has failed to act on reforms. The op-ed details how interest groups killed three bills last session that would have increased transparency and reduced self-dealing by trial lawyers. It compares Texas to Florida and Georgia, where reforms have led to premium reductions and market stability.
Homeowners insurance premiums in Texas have surged with double-digit increases outpacing many other states. Between 2021 and 2024, premiums in Austin, Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio increased by more than 23 percent. Texans now pay more for insurance than residents of almost every other state, with these costs consuming a growing share of take-home pay. The Houston Chronicle reported that without tackling lawsuit abuse directly, efforts to address the problem will fall short.
The U.S. tort system costs reached $529 billion in 2022, equating to more than $4,200 per household. These expenses represent about 2 percent of the gross domestic product and have grown at an average annual rate of 7.1 percent from 2016 to 2022, outpacing inflation. The U.S. Chamber Institute for Legal Reform analysis highlights how such rises impact businesses and consumers across the nation.
Texans for Lawsuit Reform operates as a volunteer-led organization dedicated to maintaining a fair and balanced civil justice system in Texas. It advocates for reforms to reduce frivolous lawsuits and excessive verdicts that hinder economic stability. The organization engages in advocacy, education, and policy initiatives to support business growth and job creation.
