HARRISBURG, Pa., June 13, 2002 (PRIMEZONE) -- The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry praised those members of the State Senate who voted in favor the Fair Share Act (SB-1089) early this morning. This landmark legislation will significantly reform the Commonwealth's outmoded and unfair legal doctrine of joint and several liability and represents the first major step in an ongoing effort to reform Pennsylvania's legal system.
"This is a huge victory for the business community and indeed for all Pennsylvanians," said PA Chamber President Warner. "Passage of the Fair Share Act represents the culmination of more than two decades of work on behalf of Pennsylvania business to enact meaningful lawsuit abuse reform legislation. By voting 'yes' on this historic legislation, the State Senate has literally said 'yes' to even more job creation and sustained economic growth. In doing so, the Senate sent a clear message that Pennsylvania is truly open for business and is serious about retaining and attracting high-quality, family-sustaining jobs."
Joint and several liability is a rule of law that 35 other states have already changed because of the detrimental impact it has on economic development. Study after study demonstrates that repeal of this legal doctrine would greatly stimulate job creation and, in the process, improve Pennsylvania's economy with absolutely no budgetary impact.
While joint and several liability would still apply to any defendant found 60% or more liable for causing an injury, it would not apply in situations where a defendant has a lesser degree of responsibility. It would also still apply in any case where the defendant's negligence resulted from fraud or an intentional act.
The Fair Share Act now moves from the Senate to the State House for concurrence. Governor Mark Schweiker has already indicated that he will sign the bill when it crosses his desk. Once enacted, the Fair Share Act will succeed in reforming Pennsylvania's legal system by reigning in both the number of lawsuits and the cost of awards, while maintaining the rights of legitimate victims.
"This tremendous victory for Pennsylvania was definitely a team effort involving individuals from many diverse areas," concluded Warner. "The PA Chamber applauds the unity among the business community, as demonstrated by the efforts of the Pennsylvania Business Roundtable, the NFIB, the Pennsylvania Manufacturer's Association and Pennsylvania Law Watch. We especially would like to thank Governor Schweiker, Senators Jeff Piccola and Harold Mowery, and Representative John Perzel for all their hard work to make this job-saving legislation a reality."
With over 10,000 members representing every county in the Commonwealth, the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry is the state's largest broad-based business association and the fastest-growing state chamber in the United States.