American Tort Reform Association names Oklahoma a tort reform trailblazer

The American Tort Reform Association (ATRA) has designated Oklahoma as a "Tort Reform Trailblazer" in its latest Legislative HeatCheck report. This recognition follows the enactment of laws aimed at expediting justice, enhancing transparency in litigation funding, and establishing business courts.

According to ATRA's Legislative HeatCheck report, Senate Bill 453 was enacted to accelerate the resolution of smaller lawsuits in Oklahoma. The legislation aims to reduce legal fees and court delays for families and small businesses while establishing higher standards for evidence to exclude unreliable scientific testimony. Sponsored by Senator Brent Howard and Representative Erick Harris, this reform seeks to enhance judicial efficiency and fairness across the state.

House Bill 2619 focuses on increasing transparency in litigation funding by requiring disclosure of third-party funding sources and prohibiting foreign entities from secretly financing lawsuits in Oklahoma. This legislation, also sponsored by Harris and Howard, is designed to protect the state's courts from external influences that could affect legal outcomes. By mandating public disclosure, the law promotes accountability and preserves the integrity of Oklahoma’s civil justice system.

Senate Bill 632 introduces specialized business courts intended to efficiently manage complex commercial disputes. These courts aim to reduce the caseload on general courts while providing expert judicial oversight for business litigation. Sponsored by Senator Lonnie Paxton and Representative Kyle Hilbert, this initiative is part of Oklahoma’s broader strategy to create a more business-friendly environment by speeding up resolution times and improving case outcomes.

ATRA estimates that excessive litigation costs impose an annual "tort tax" of $922 per Oklahoma resident, equating to nearly $3,689 for a family of four. These costs are associated with the loss of over 32,200 jobs statewide and have a significant impact on the state's economy. Oklahoma's recognition as a "Tort Reform Trailblazer" marks progress since it was labeled a "Judicial Hellhole" in 2019–2020, reflecting substantial reforms aimed at improving the legal environment.

According to its official website, ATRA is a nonprofit advocacy organization committed to advancing fair, balanced, and predictable civil justice reforms nationwide. The group provides research, legislative tracking, and public education to inform policymakers and the public about civil justice issues. ATRA's mission is to promote reforms that protect consumers, encourage economic growth, and improve fairness in the legal system.