A new law has been passed in Georgia limiting mesothelioma lawsuits to only those who have suffered some physical ailment because of exposure to the hazardous substance.
The new law will prevent those who have suffered asbestos exposure from filing a lawsuit unless they become physically ill, but will extend the statute of limitations for those eligible to file a complaint.
According to a non-profit study, more than 730,000 asbestos lawsuits were filed prior to 2003, costing defendant corporations over $70 billion in payouts.
Some argue that the flood of asbestos lawsuits is bankrupting businesses. Others, however, contend that corporations sacrificed worker health to profit. Despite varying opinions, state Senator John Wiles—sponsor of the bill—said both the business community and the Georgia Trial Lawyers Association support the new law.
Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue signed the bill into law this week.
Similar measures have been passed in Florida, Ohio, Texas, Kansas, and South Carolina.
(Source: Insurance Journal)
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