Michelle Smith, the NFIB Leadership Council Chair and owner of Source 1 Specialties in Orlando, has penned an op-ed for the Orlando Sentinel. In her column titled “Florida’s Lawsuit Abuse Reform is a Model for the South,” Smith emphasizes the significance of the 2023 tort reform legislation in Florida and argues against any legislative attempts to reverse these measures.
Smith states, “Now, some in the Legislature have threatened to roll back these hard-won gains with legislation that would undo the very reforms that have turned Florida into a model for other states. The question is simple: why risk undoing the progress we’ve made? Florida’s legal reforms have saved consumers millions by cutting costs, specifically in the property and auto insurance sectors, while protecting small businesses from predatory legal practices.”
As part of her role as NFIB member Chairman in Florida, Smith notes she regularly hears from small business owners nationwide who are interested in achieving similar tort reform efforts as those implemented in Florida. She mentions that states such as Alabama, Texas, and Louisiana are observing Florida’s approach closely and are beginning to implement similar reforms. Additionally, under Governor Brian Kemp’s leadership, Georgia has recently enacted comprehensive tort reform aimed at stabilizing insurance costs and reducing litigation abuse.
Smith concludes by highlighting Florida’s position as a model for good policy in the South. Neighboring states are looking to replicate its balanced and fair legal environment.
