Out-of-control liability insurance costs jeopardize the future of South Carolina’s small businesses, and the SC citizens are taking a stand at the Tort Reform Rally .
On Tuesday, January 9th, 2024, the SC Venue Crisis team will lead a rally on the front steps of the SC State House, urging lawmakers to pass the SC Justice Act (S 533) and bring much-needed tort reform to the state.
The SC Tort Reform Rally will highlight the devastating impact of frivolous lawsuits on businesses, employees, and the overall cultural landscape of South Carolina. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear firsthand accounts from affected individuals and businesses, learn about the proposed tort reform solutions, and voice their support for responsible legislation.
The SC Tort Reform Rally will feature a lineup of powerful speakers, including:
- Rep. Jay Kilmartin (R- Lexington District 85), owner of Cigar Militia who recently turned in the company’s liquor license when the coverage quote rose from $1,500 in 2023 to $28,000 for 2024.
- Rep. Stewart Jones (R- Laurens District 14) is a business owner, advocate for fiscal responsibility, supporter of term limits, and opponent of government overreach.
- Diane Hardy, founder of the Mom & Pop Alliance and a tireless advocate for family-owned businesses across South Carolina.
- Ben Hebel, Producer at KSA Insurance & Surety Bonds Agent, is an asset to the SC Venue Crisis, searching for better, more affordable liability coverage for small businesses.
- Additional speakers from various industries impacted by the crisis united in their call for fair and balanced liability laws.
Unbalanced liability laws have led to skyrocketing insurance premiums, forcing many small venues, restaurants, and other businesses to struggle to make ends meet and keep their open. These laws punish business owners and pad the pockets of plaintiff attorneys.
“It doesn’t make a lot of sense,” said Alex Zelling, co-owner of the Cigar Militia who joined Rep. Jay Kilmartin in protest of the current law recently at SCDOR. “If we were to serve somebody … am I supposed to drive around and follow this person around all day long, because now I’m liable for what he does at another establishment?”
It’s not only the hospitality industry that has something to lose. The SC Trucking Association and SC Homebuilder’s Association are among a few organizations that have been lobbying for change. It’s time.
The SC Justice Act offers a common-sense solution by establishing reasonable caps on non-economic damages and other vital reforms. This legislation would level the playing field, protect businesses from frivolous lawsuits, and make it more affordable to operate in South Carolina.
The SC Venue Crisis, along with the businesses below, urges all South Carolinians who care about their local businesses, communities, and a fair and thriving economy to join the rally on January 9th. Rally attendees may begin arriving as early as 8:30 am. Singer-songwriter Hans Wenzel will perform at 10 am, and the speakers will address the crowd from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm.
A rally meet-up will take place at Art Bar on Park St. in Columbia on Monday, January 8th, from 6:30 to 9 pm.
Take a day off work, bring your rally signs, and show your support for tort reform! Together, we can make a difference and ensure a brighter future for South Carolina’s small businesses.
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SC Venue Crisis is a coalition of concerned citizens sounding the alarm about the devastating effects of South Carolina’s current tort system on small businesses.